Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Sri Ayudhya Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Tel

Transcription

1 Annual Report 2015 Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Sri Ayudhya Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Tel ISBN

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3 Forword The Annual Report 2015 is published under the theme Raising Thailand s Status on the International Stage. During the calendar year 2015, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs implemented its Strategy, the MFA Strategy , in building international confidence, reinforcing foreign relations and cooperation, and enhancing the competitivness of the Thai economy. The activities resulted not only in international recognition and the raising of Thailand s status, but also in the strengthening of ties and the broadening of cooperation with friendly countries. The raising of Thailand s status was clearly manifested in the endorsement of Thailand as Chair of the Group of 77 in New York in 2016, allowing Thailand to play a leading role on the international stage. The undertakings of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in promoting national interests in all aspects were aimed at strengthening the nation and enhancing regional and global peace and prosperity. We hope that the Annual Report 2015 will benefit our readers and welcome all comments for the benefit of Thailand s foreign affairs in the long run. Editorial Committee September Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

4 Contents Forword 2 Organization Chart 4 Message from the Minister of Foreign Affairs 6 Message from the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Direction of National Foreign Policy 16 Vision, Mission, and Values 18 Executive Summary 20 Chapter 1: Promoting Relations with Neighbouring Countries and Countries in Southeast Asia 25 Chapter 2: Promoting Thailand s Constructive Role in the ASEAN Community 34 Chapter 3: Enhancing Thailand s Relations with Strategic Partners 41 Chapter 4: Playing a Constructive and Responsible Role in the International Community 62 Chapter 5: Enhancing Thailand s Economic Competitiveness and Cooperation 89 Chapter 6: Promoting Public Diplomacy 98 Chapter 7: Promoting Inclusive Diplomacy and Improving Consular Services 106 Chapter 8: Enhancing Organizational Capability 114 Appendix 121 Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General 122 MFA Addresses and Contact Information 141 MFA Websites 142 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 3

5 Organization Chart Ministry of Foreign Affairs Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Advisor to Minister of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Deputy Permanent Secretary overseeing Administration Deputy Permanent Secretary overseeing Bilateral Relations Deputy Permanent Secretary overseeing Multilateral Relations Deputy Permanent Secretary overseeing Foreign Service Support Ambassadors attached to the Ministry Department of East Asian Affairs Department of ASEAN Affairs Department of Protocol Office of the Permanent Secretary Department of European Affairs Department of International Economic Affairs Department of Consular Affairs Embassies, Permanent Missions, Consulates-General, Trade and Economic Office Department of American and South Pacific Affairs Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs Department of International Organizations Thailand International Cooperation Agency - TICA Department of Information Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs 4 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

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7 Message from Mr. Don Pramudwinai Minister of Foreign Affairs During the past year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has continued to actively carry out Thailand s foreign policy focusing on strengthening good relations with all countries. Our objectives have been to establish a solid foundation for the country to reinforce closer collaboration with other countries in all aspects and raise Thailand s status on the international stage, to protect and promote the interests of the nation and Thai people, and to support the Government s policies to develop Thailand as a nation with stability, prosperity, and sustainability. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also worked earnestly to support the Government s policy to enhance national economic competitiveness and people s capacity towards realizing the goal of Thailand 4.0. This has been done by introducing best practices from foreign countries, promoting cooperation in science, technology, and innovation as well as education and youth development, and identifying trade and investment opportunities abroad. Meanwhile, the Ministry has consistently improved its consular services to better connect with and protect the interests of Thai nationals overseas. 6 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

8 Thailand has been playing an active role in promoting international development cooperation. After being endorsed as Chair of the Group of 77 in New York for the year 2016, which reflects international confidence in the country, Thailand has increased our role in promoting development through His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) on the international stage. We have closely collaborated with 133 other developing member countries, offering the SEP as an alternative path of development to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals by The year 2015 saw close and cordial relations between Thailand and our neighbouring countries as witnessed by exchanges of visit at various levels and expansion of trade and investment. This is in accordance with the Government s plan to enhance greater connectivity between Thailand and her neighbouring countries and within ASEAN. At the same time, the relations between Thailand and countries in other regions also expanded. In 2015, leaders and ministers from various countries visited Thailand, including from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, Fiji, Turkey, China, Japan, North Korea, Russia, India, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Cuba and Togo. There were also exchanges of visit by business delegations from the United States, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, New Zealand, the Philippines, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. The Thai side also made high-level visits or held high-level talks with various countries, including Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, the United States, Fiji, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, India, the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 7

9 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also organized several international meetings. The ACD Summit held in 2016, in which private sector representatives were invited to give inputs on how to better connect business opportunities within Asia, has opened new business opportunities for Thai business people. In all, Thailand s positive and active role in international meetings has raised Thailand s profile on the international stage. During the past year, we have seen increasing confidence in Thailand among the international community. The Royal Thai Embassies, Permanent Missions, and Consulates-General around the world have been regularly engaging with foreign governments and business communities to inform them about the Government s determination and progress in carrying out national reform, reinforcing solidarity and building sustainable democracy according to the Roadmap, and addressing pending issues, such as human trafficking, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and civil aviation standards, with a view to ensuring Thailand s compliance with international systems and standards. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has put great emphasis on cultural diplomacy to promote the unique and prominent features of Thai society and economy and foster closer relations at the people-to-people level. In 2015, the Royal Thai Embassies, Permanent Missions, and Consulates-General around the world organized 50 Thai Festival events in more than 35 countries worldwide to showcase Thai arts, culture, local wisdom, food and products, including One Tambon One Product (OTOP) goods. In 2016, 55 such events were held in 35 countries. Furthermore, Thailand has been playing an active role in promoting international development cooperation. After being endorsed as Chair of the Group of 77 in New York for the year 2016, which reflects international confidence in the country, Thailand has increased our role in promoting development through His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) on the international stage. We have closely collaborated with 8 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

10 133 other developing member countries, offering the SEP as an alternative path of development to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals by This effort has not only made the SEP widely recognized on the international stage, but has also contributed to its effective implementation in Thailand. To ensure that our policies and practices fully benefit the people and the nation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has pursued Inclusive Diplomacy in line with the Royal Thai Government s public-private-people partnership model. By cooperating with other government agencies and sectors in an integrated manner the private sector, academic sector, and Thai communities in Thailand and abroad the Ministry has put the people s interest at the center of Thai foreign policy. (Don Pramudwinai) Minister of Foreign Affairs Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 9

11 Message from Mr. Apichart Chinwanno Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Royal Thai Embassies, Permanent Missions and Consulates-General around the world, have been working actively in carrying out major foreign policy goals of the Royal Thai Government. During 2015, we continued to prioritize, among others, our mission to promote understanding and confidence in Thailand, to enhance relations and cooperation with all countries, to work towards the realization of ASEAN Community, and to protect Thai nationals abroad. The Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Royal Thai Embassies, Permanent Missions and Consulates-General worldwide provided updates to foreign missions and international organizations along with foreign leaders and notable figures upon the occasions of visits and discussions during key meetings resulting in international confidence in Thailand s political developments, the implementation of Roadmap, and the national policies that will move Thailand forward. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborated with line agencies in actively solving urgent problems and promoting understanding about the Royal Thai Government s determination in implementing measures in accordance with international standards. This included (1) the dialogues on the issue of Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, which resulted in the EU s 10 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

12 On the international stage, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs promoted the constructive roles of Thailand in major global issues. This, we also saw progress of partnership in the fields of peace and security, promotion of moderation and human rights, and transnational issues such as climate change, irregular migration, poverty, and terrorism. acknowledgement of Thailand s ongoing efforts in the improvement of systems and law enforcement and the extension of time for Thailand to solve the problem; (2) the discussion with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States and with the EU Commission on the Government s efforts in improving Thailand s civil aviation in compliance with the Standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and international standards, resulting in the EU not including Thailand in the Air Safety List for the end of 2015 round; (3) the dialogues with the US concerned agencies on Thailand s operations to tackle the problems of human trafficking including effective law enforcement, prosecution of corrupt officials, and the protection of victims, resulting in the upgrading of Thailand s status in the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report 2016 from Tier 3 to Tier 2 Watch List. All of these were done in tandem with promotion of understanding about the situations and the progress of our undertakings by the Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide, especially in the United States and Europe. With our neighbouring countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs worked to strengthen cooperation in all areas, including security and cross-border cooperation to create common security and prosperity. We pushed forward discussion at the policy-making levels such as the Thailand Vietnam Joint Cabinet Retreat (JCR) in July 2015 and the Thailand Cambodia Joint Cabinet Retreat Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 11

13 in December The Retreats yielded several concrete results including the agreements to increase trade, investment, and connectivity and the start of negotiation on a treaty of extradition between Thailand and Vietnam, and the agreements to expedite the commencement of coordinated patrol along border areas to combat illegal logging and further enhance cooperation on combating drug trafficking, human trafficking and transnational crimes. At the respective Joint Commissions on Bilateral Cooperation with our neighbouring countries, we agreed on the utilization of the national joint committee as a mechanism to deal with illegal logging along the Thailand Cambodia border areas and the expedition of the signing of the new Agreement on Border Security Cooperation between Thailand and Lao PDR, as well as on the expedition of the drafting of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Comprehensive Security, the drafting of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Fishery, and the sharing of information on tackling regional haze pollution and to cooperate on the preservation of wild life and biodiversity between Thailand and Malaysia, for example. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized various activities to raise awareness of all sectors in the country as ASEAN was moving to realize the ASEAN Community. As a co-founder of ASEAN, Thailand has been fully committed to the integration and strengthening of ASEAN. We have also emphasized ASEAN Centrality in engaging with ASEAN s Dialogue Partners which include major powers like the United States, China, Japan and Russia, with a view to reinforcing regional security and prosperity. As a country coordinator for ASEAN China dialogue relations from July 2012 August 2015, Thailand successfully encouraged positive discussions between ASEAN and China, which resulted in two lists of commonalities, which ASEAN and China would further use in drafting the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. From August 2015 onward, as Thailand assumed the role of country coordinator for ASEAN EU dialogue relations for 3 years, we have been determined to push forward with promoting partnership between ASEAN and the EU for mutual benefits. During the past year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sought to enhance bilateral relations and collaboration with various countries, including key partners like the United States, China, Japan, Republic of Korea and Australia. This was done through bilateral mechanisms such as the 5 th Thailand US Strategic Dialogue in December 2015, resulting in greater cooperation in a number of areas such as military, trade and investment, science and technology, education and culture, and pushing for concrete strategic cooperation, discussions between Thailand and China at various levels on security, economics and culture, and high-level dialogues between Thailand and Japan on the promotion of cooperation in security, rail technology, disaster management, education 12 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

14 and creative economy, as well as ministerial discussion between Thailand and South Korea on cooperation in various aspects. On the international stage, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs promoted the constructive roles of Thailand in major global issues. This, we also saw progress of partnership in the fields of peace and security, promotion of moderation and human rights, and transnational issues such as climate change, irregular migration, poverty and terrorism. At the general debate of the 70 th Session of the United Nations General Assembly under the theme The United Nations at 70 the road ahead to peace, security and human rights at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in September 2015, the Prime Minister of Thailand reiterated the significance of development and human rights promotion, along with the significance of international cooperation to prevent transnational problems such as drugs, human trafficking, and communicable diseases. At the United Nations Security Council held an Open Debate entitled Inclusive Development for the Maintenance of International Peace and Security at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in January 2015, Thailand also proposed that the United Nations Security Council attaches greater importance to non-traditional security and human security including the promotion of the role of women. Moreover, non-member countries should be given more opportunity to participate in decision-making processes in the Council. In September 2015, Thailand was entrusted to be Chair of G77 in New York during the year In preparation towards the assumption of Thailand s Chairmanship, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand hosted a workshop in Bangkok in November The workshop welcomed Thailand s theme for the chairmanship, namely, From Vision to Action: Inclusive Partnership for Sustainable Development as well as the strategic goals to further strengthen cooperation among developing countries or South South Cooperation and to explore alternative approaches to sustainable development, especially the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. Thailand has played host to several meetings on major global issues. In 2015, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized two Special Meetings on Irregular Migration in the Indian Ocean to encourage cooperation between countries of origin and affected countries to solve the problems at their root causes and stop the flow of irregular migrants. We organized the Bangkok Symposium on Landmine Victim Assistance: Enhancing a Comprehensive and Sustainable Mine Action, which exchanged views and experiences as well as good practices on mine victim assistance, and where Thailand proposed her practices in linking the assistance to mine victims with the promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities. Furthermore, in collaboration with the Australian Attorney-General s Department, Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 13

15 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs co-hosted the First Bali Process Regional Symposium on Trafficking in Persons for the Purposes of Labour Exploitation under the Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons and Related Transnational Crime. Working with Thailand Sustainable Development Foundation and Mae Fah Luang Foundation, we organized an exhibition on sustainable development based on His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and a side-event seminar titled Sharing experiences on sustainable development at the United Nations Convention Centre in Bangkok. On the economic front, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been cooperating closely with the private sector to expand trade and investment opportunities for Thai businesses in foreign countries. In collaboration with the Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General, the Ministry organized a number of activities in 2015 such as exchange of visits among Thai and foreign business people and experts to increase quality trade and investment. We also promoted cooperation in sustainable development, education and culture, agriculture and alternative energy, technical cooperation, science, technology and innovation, such as biomedicines, by encouraging linkages between Thai and foreign agencies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported development cooperation with friendly countries in both bilateral and trilateral frameworks. This included the organization of a study visit under the topic Community Development based on Sufficiency Economy 2015 for high-level representatives from Fiji to share knowledge and experiences of Thailand s community development under His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, a study visit under the Buakaew Relations Project 2015 for Pacific Island Countries to promote sustainable tourism and sufficiency economy, through demonstrations of local living and economy, the Workshop for the one Gewog one Product (OGOP) Development Project in Bhutan, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Joint Fellowship Programme for Doctoral Studies under the Thai Swedish Trilateral Cooperation to be awarded to doctoral students from South and Southeast Asia, a training course titled Policy and Strategy Workshop on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control that TICA and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) supported the ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University to host a training for participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam. 14 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

16 In our endeavour to provide quality services in foreign affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has continued to improve training and capacity building of our personnel to enhance their quality to uphold integrity and professionalism and to work efficiently with other agencies. On this note, I would like to express my sincere thanks and admiration to all officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their dedication in carrying out their duties with full ability and responsibility, which has and will ensure that the task of foreign affairs will continue to move forward actively and effectively with a view to protecting and promoting the interests of our nation and people. (Apichart Chinwanno) Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 15

17 Direction of National Foreign Policy The year 2015 saw continuity in the direction of Thailand s foreign policy, including in the following key areas: 1. Uphold national sovereignty, integrity and security, promote understanding and build confidence in Thailand among the international community; 2. Maintain cordial relations and enhance cooperation at the bilateral and multilateral levels; 3. Reinforce unity and strength of ASEAN, and enhance national preparedness and the constructive role of Thailand in promoting cooperation between ASEAN and its partners; 4. Promote relations with countries that have potential and strategic significance in order to support national political, economic, and social development; 5. Enhance regional and global security and strengthen Thailand s roles and responsibilities in the international arena through constructive contributions to resolving transnational issues; 6. Promote public diplomacy through consular work, the protection of lives and interests of Thai nationals abroad, knowledge building and the promotion of the people s participation in foreign affairs. The above direction of foreign policy is in accordance with the Policy Statement of the Council of Ministers delivered by General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, to the National Legislative Assembly on Friday 12 September The Prime Minister stated that foreign policy is a vital component of overall policy in national administration, whether in the area of politics, economics, or society, by employing integrated diplomatic mechanisms directly or indirectly, for the maximum benefit of the Thai people. The main substance of the policy statement can be summarized as follows: 1. Protecting and upholding the monarchy by providing accurate information about the institution and supporting royally initiated projects; 2. Maintaining national security and foreign affairs by ensuring Thailand s readiness towards the ASEAN Community, addressing the problem of transnational issues, emphasizing the prevention and resolution of disputes and boundary problems, as well as promoting border area development, confidence building and defense cooperation, protection of natural resources, and the rule of law; 3. Reducing social inequality and creating opportunities to access public services by elevating labour skills and solving the problems of illegal migration and human trafficking; 4. Promoting education, religion, and art and culture through educational reform and reinforcing moral values to improve the people s livelihoods and ensure peaceful co-existence; 5. Improving the quality of public health services, strengthening disease monitoring systems, and promoting research and development; 6. Enhancing the country s economic potential, giving due consideration to efficient investment projects, strengthening the agricultural sector, decreasing export barriers, developing infrastructure and supporting innovation and capacity building for entrepreneurs; 16 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

18 7. Promoting Thailand s role and exploring opportunities in the ASEAN Community by enhancing connectivity and competitiveness; 8. Developing and promoting the application of science, technology, research and development, and innovation by developing human resources and investing appropriately in relevant fields; 9. Maintaining the security of the resource base and creating balance between conservation and sustainability by building capacity in land and water management, pollution control, food security, and waste management for the well-being of the people; 10. Upholding good governance by preventing corruption, improving technological systems, and improving access to public services; 11. Improving laws and the judicial process to increase effectiveness and ensure justice. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 17

19 Vision, Mission, and Values Vision To be a leading organization in driving Thailand s foreign policy for the advancement of national interests Mission 1. Represent the Royal Thai Government in international conferences and negotiations to protect, maintain, and promote Thailand s national interests in bilateral and multilateral forums, and to participate in the shaping of international principles and norms; 2. Oversee Thailand s foreign policy and provide advice and recommendations to the government and other agencies on policies and strategies related to foreign affairs and international law; 3. Protect and promote the legitimate rights and interests of Thai nationals living or traveling abroad, as well as provide consular services; 4. Promote and facilitate the transfer of knowledge, know-how, and best practices from overseas as well as international norms with a view to contributing to Thailand s economic and social development; 5. Promote international confidence in, and a positive image of, Thailand; 6. Perform protocol functions in line with international practice to support duties on foreign affairs; 7. Promote and implement Thailand s development cooperation at bilateral and multilateral levels; 8. Build and disseminate knowledge on foreign affairs to promote understanding among all sectors of Thai society and the Thai public; 9. Coordinate the conduct of foreign affairs, engaging with all relevant sectors in Thailand; 10. Enhance organizational capability and effectiveness in accordance with the principle of good governance. 18 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

20 Values: CARE Constructive Be creative and take initiative at work Be open-minded and willing to listen to the opinions of others Be flexible and ready to adapt to change Accountable Be responsible in undertaking one s duties and to the organization Work with dedication, perseverance, honesty, transparency, and accountability Reliable Maintain credibility and be dependable by the public and other agencies on matters related to foreign affairs Excellent Work with professionalism Be committed to achieving successful results and efficiency Uphold principles, integrity, and fairness Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 19

21 Executive Summary 1. The Overall Picture of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Work in 2015: Thailand on the International Stage In the midst of relentless change in a global context, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded to the crises and leveraged the opportunities that Thailand faced. In 2015, bilateral visits and meetings with both neighbouring and other countries in Southeast Asia led to agreements on accelerating the tackling of trans-border problems. These problems included deforestation and illegal logging, illegal fishing, migration, and transnational crimes. Thailand and her neighbours also agreed to enhance academic, educational, and security cooperation and agreed to cooperate in developing border areas, and to promote economic and tourism connectivity. Serving as the ASEAN National Secretariat of Thailand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborated with line agencies in driving Thailand towards the ASEAN Community. This collaboration took the form of legal development, awareness raising, and the promotion of Thailand s constructive role in ASEAN, as well as positive engagement in the ASEAN Community, including constructive support of ASEAN s role in the international community. On the political front, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defence were the focal points in the drafting of Thailand s Action Plan for the ASEAN Political-Security Community , which was endorsed by the inter-agency committee for ASEAN Community preparation, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs in The Action Plan aims to forge ASEAN cooperation in border management, maritime security, the tackling of transnational problems such as terrorism, transnational crimes, environmental issues, food security and energy security, as well as the promotion of human rights. On the economic front, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborated with all concerned agencies in promoting national and regional economic interests, and in implementing Thailand s international commitments. These included support for the protection of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve Secretariat (APTERR Secretariat) in Thailand, as well as support for the elevation and protection of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) in Singapore, which will support the implementation of the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralization. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs played a role in providing advice on international law for these undertakings. As the country coordinator for ASEAN China dialogue relations, from July 2012 to July 2015, Thailand enabled ASEAN China cooperation to progress, especially in building trust and confidence in the constructive negotiation process for the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC). This was done in tandem with the ASEAN China promotion of full implementation of the Declaration on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, particularly early harvest measures. As a result, in 2015, ASEAN and China agreed on the establishment of a hotline between senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of ASEAN and China to respond to emergency situations at sea. 20 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

22 Thailand played an important part in framing the direction of strategic cooperation between ASEAN and its dialogue partners. This was done by ensuring effective implementation of ASEAN-led arrangements and securing ASEAN Centrality. In August 2015, Thailand took the role of the country coordinator for ASEAN EU dialogue relations for the next 3 years (ending in 2018). The promotion of visits and meetings with strategic countries led to the tightening of relations and cooperation. Achievements in term of relations between Thailand and strategic countries in 2015 encompassed the organization of the 5 th US Thailand Strategic Dialogue, the launch of the New Colombo Plan with Australia to enhance educational cooperation, the signing of Memorandums of Understanding between Thailand and Russia on energy and anti-narcotics cooperation, and a discussion on cooperation in Buddhism education and human rights, as well as the prevention and suppression of terrorism and transnational crimes with China. Thailand discussed guidelines for expanding cooperation between East Asia and Latin America, and announced the Three-Year TPIF Development Partnership Programme ( ), as well as a study on the connection between Thailand s East-West Economic Corridor and the west coast of India. In international forums, Thailand played constructive roles on many fronts, including in the areas of development and security. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs represented Thailand on the international stage. Thailand proposed guidelines among APEC economies to fight challenges through inclusive and people-centered community development and emphasized Thailand s readiness to be a development partner in the Lower Mekong sub-region. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs worked to advance the Government s policy on continuously developing and reconstructing infrastructure for regional connectivity. Thailand has supported the facilitation of trade regulations and the improvement of business transparency, such as in the framework of Ayeyawady Chao Phraya Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS). As Thailand assumed the Chairmanship of the Group of 77 in New York for the year 2016, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized a workshop in 2015 to prepare for Thailand s chairmanship. The meeting promoted His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy as a development model that developing countries can implement towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized Special Meetings on Irregular Migration in the Indian Ocean in May and December 2015 in which Thailand proposed an Action Agenda to solve the problems through cooperation in development and effective law enforcement. As one of the economic ministries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs played an important role in promoting Thai products and services and enhancing trade and investment cooperation. The introduction of a business delegation from Brazil led to the order of food materials from Thailand. A business delegation from Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay purchased air conditioners from Thailand. The business delegation from New Zealand agreed to sign a business deal for light mass bricks with Thailand. A business delegation from the Philippines was interested in buying products and equipment for their dairy industry. A business delegation from Jordan and the United Arab Emirates ordered goods and jasmine rice respectively at THAIFEX Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 21

23 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinated and introduced foreign expertise and technology to facilitate the country s promotion of technological as well as research and development cooperation to drive the Thai economy. Thailand concluded agreements and conducted several activities to increase the country s competitiveness in These included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on polar research and academic cooperation between Norway and Thailand under the initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, enhanced networking between Thai and American animation producers under the Thai U.S. Creative Partnership and cooperation in STEM Education with the United States, the follow-up on the utilization of the Thailand UK Newton Fund, the organization of the 1 st Thailand Belgium Science, Technology and Innovation Forum, networking with Taiwan, Israel, and the Netherlands for research and development in science, technology, and innovation, as well as cooperation in vocational education and training between Thailand and Germany. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs promotion of understanding in political situations, goals, and efforts to address transnational problems and to improve national standards boosted confidence and enhanced cooperation with partners. The negotiation with the EU on the tackling of the Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing helped restore trust and confidence between Thailand and the EU, which resulted in a time extension for Thailand to solve the problem. The discussion on the tackling of human trafficking and illegal fishing with the United States promoted further understanding. Thailand received useful advice from the United States and the United States reaffirmed support for Thailand, which included the tackling of irregular migration. The provision of information on civil aviation in Thailand and the discussion of the issue with the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States and with the European Commission received acceptance and the EU did not enter Thailand on the Air Safety List in the end of 2015 and the middle of 2016 rounds. The implementation of public diplomacy by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs bore good fruit. The integration of work increased effectiveness and built up confidence in such things as the tackling of human trafficking and illegal fishing and the improvement of civil aviation standards. The quality of certain services improved including the offering of an express passport service and a 24-hour consular call center service. The protection of Thai nationals abroad continued smoothly; for example, 172 Thais were assisted after earthquakes in Nepal; 148 Thai students in Yemen were evacuated, and numerous Thai fishermen in Indonesia have been assisted and repatriated on numerous occasions since In sum, the undertakings of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2015 protected national interests, reinforced confidence and collaboration, and improved the potential for Thailand in the international community. At the same time, the Ministry has continued strengthening its organizational capabilities through the training of personnel and the meetings of consular officials as well as Ambassadors and Consulates-General, which improved the efficiency of foreign policy making as well as the quality of consular and foreign affairs services. 22 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

24 2. Future Directions: Strategy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs With the aim of enhancing Thailand s strategic position and national interests, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs adopted in May 2015 the Strategy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , taking into account the current domestic, regional and global contexts, with an emphasis on the following areas: 1. Promoting relations with neighbouring countries and countries in Southeast Asia; 2. Promoting Thailand s constructive role in the ASEAN Community; 3. Enhancing Thailand s relations with strategic partners; 4. Playing a constructive and responsible role in the international community; 5. Enhancing Thailand s economic competitiveness and cooperation; 6. Promoting international confidence in, and a positive image of, Thailand; 7. Promoting understanding and the participation of all sectors in the conduct of foreign affairs and improving services for the public; 8. Enhancing organizational capability. Editorial Committee September 2016 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 23

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26 Chapter 1 Promoting Relations with Neighbouring Countries and Countries in Southeast Asia 1. Neighbouring Countries Thailand s relations with neighbouring countries have become stronger in all aspects, building a strong and stable foundation for the establishment of the ASEAN Community. Areas of cooperation range from cross-border security and development to economic and social cooperation. We put particular emphasis on strengthening the cooperation in the areas of connectivity, trade and investment, agriculture, public health, and tourism. 1.1 The Kingdom of Cambodia It is evident that bilateral relations between Thailand and Cambodia were at their best, with exchange of high-level visits and numerous cooperative projects. Early on in the year, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, led a Thai delegation to a meeting of the 9 th Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia in Cambodia on January Both sides agreed, among other things, to utilize the national joint committee as a mechanism to deal with illegal logging of Siamese rosewood, to start a negotiation on double-taxation avoidance, to promote connectivity and the development of border areas, and to continue with welfare projects in Cambodia. High-level visits from Cambodia include the official visit of H.E. Mr. Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, to Thailand on July 2015, during which Thailand and Cambodia signed the Thailand Cambodia Agreement on Border Crossings. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 25

27 Subsequently, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia, paid an official visit to Thailand and led a delegation to the 2 nd Thailand Cambodia Joint Cabinet Retreat (JCR) in Bangkok, Thailand during December Under the theme of Partnership for Peace and Prosperity, the official visit and the JCR celebrated Thai-Cambodian close and long-standing relations based on growing interdependence, mutual trust, shared peace and prosperity. On security, both sides agreed to expedite the commencement of coordinated patrols along the border areas to combat illegal logging and further enhance cooperation on combating drug trafficking, human trafficking and transnational crimes. Whilst on the subject of connectivity, the two sides agreed to improve road transport, coastal shipping and rail transport services. On trade and investment, the two Prime Ministers agreed to triple the current bilateral trade value by 2020, as well as to task relevant authorities to expedite the conclusion of the Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation. Furthermore, the two sides would implement the Single Window Inspection and the Common Control Area for goods passing through their main international points of entry. On agriculture, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to convene a meeting of the Working Group on Agricultural Cooperation. In addition, the Thai side would provide three years worth of technical support projects to Cambodia. On public health, both sides would intensify cooperation, especially along the border areas, including the development of a simplified cross border referral system and setting up of cross border sister hospitals arrangements. Moreover, the Thai side would provide technical support to assist in the capacity building of Cambodian medical professionals and public health workers. On labour cooperation, the Thai side would continue to provide technical support on labour skills development along the border and conduct training courses at the Thailand Cambodia Skills Development Center in Phnom Penh. In the aspect of tourism, both countries agreed to further promote the Two Kingdoms, One Destination scheme, attracting tourists to destinations such as world heritage sites and historical parks, as well as destinations in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam which are sea linked. 1.2 The Lao People s Democratic Republic Relations between Thailand and the Lao PDR continued to be cordial and close at all levels. The Deputy Prime Ministers and Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Lao PDR co-chaired meetings of the 19 th Joint Commission between Thailand and the Lao PDR and the 10 th Thailand Laos Joint Boundary Commission on January 2015 in Vientiane, where both sides discussed the revision of the new Agreement on Border Security as well as issues on labour and connectivity. Both sides were pleased with the progress of land border demarcation, totalling 96 percent of their entire border area. 26 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

28 Towards the end of the year, H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, co-hosted the 20 th Joint Commission between Thailand and the Lao PDR in Chiang Rai on October 2015, where the two countries signed the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of Thai-Lao Friendship Social Development Center in Vientiane, aimed at the rehabilitation of human trafficking victims. The Meeting also called for the expedition of the signing of the new Agreement on Border Security Cooperation, the Memorandum of Understanding on Labour Cooperation, and the Agreement on Border Crossing. 1.3 Malaysia Malaysia and Thailand enjoyed a year of fruitful discussions and cooperation in numerous important issues. H.E. Dato Seri Hishammuddin bin Tun Hussein, Minister of Defence of Malaysia, met with H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 29 January 2015 during the 52 nd Meeting of the Thai-Malaysian Joint Boundary Commission, where the two countries agreed to collaborate closely on tackling international terrorism and the spread of extremism. The Malaysian Minister of Defence also paid a courtesy call on H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, on 14 March 2015 and discussed the drafting Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 27

29 of the Agreement on Border Cooperation to promote understanding and peace along border areas. The Prime Minister also expressed his intent to promote land, rail, and bridge connectivity with Malaysia for mutual prosperity. In tackling transnational issues, during his visit to Malaysia on 20 May 2015, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand discussed the problem of irregular migration with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia and Indonesia, as they are ASEAN members similarly affected by the problem. They agreed on saving the lives of migrants transported by sea on the basis of mutual responsibility and municipal law. All agreed with Thailand that the countries concerned should join hands in fighting against transnational crimes and human trafficking, and in preventing migration, by means of intelligence, law enforcement, and development in the country of origin. Malaysia and Thailand aimed to enhance their comprehensive security and economic development cooperation. During the meetings of the 13 th Thailand Malaysia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation and the 4 th Thailand Malaysia Committee on Joint Development Strategy (JDS) for Border Areas in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 22 October Both countries agreed to expedite the drafting of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Comprehensive Security, to encourage the establishment of Thailand Malaysia Halal Business Council, to draft a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Fisheries, to share information on tackling regional haze pollution and to cooperate on the preservation of wild life and biodiversity. As for the 2 nd JDS Action Plan, it covers areas of cooperation such as infrastructure, trade and investment, tourism, energy, and Halal industry. 28 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

30 1.4 The Republic of the Union of Myanmar In a bilateral discussion between H.E. Mr. Nyan Tun, Vice President of Myanmar, and H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand on 29 January 2015 during a meeting of the Thai-Myanmar Joint High-Level Committee (JHC) on the Dawei Special Economic Zone and Related Areas, held in Thailand during January 2015, the two countries reiterated on working together, especially in terms of connectivity and development, for public interests in both countries. Thailand also reiterated the importance of various developments in the ASEAN region which would foster the strengths of the member states. Upon his visit to Thailand on 25 February 2015, H.E. Dr. Sai Mauk Kham, Vice President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, discussed cooperation in many areas including public health, the exchange and training of medical personnel, and the opening of checkpoints. When H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Wunna Maung Lwin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar, co-chaired the 8 th Thailand Myanmar Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in Chiang Mai on 28 July 2015, the two countries signed the Agreement on the Exemption of Visa Requirements for holders of ordinary passports that permit stays for a period not exceeding 14 days. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 29

31 H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn made her royal visit to Myanmar, upon the invitation from H.E. Dr. Sai Mauk Kham, Vice President of Myanmar, during 3 6 October Her Royal Highness met with H.E. Mr. Thein Sein, President of Myanmar, along with the Vice President on 5 October The Princess visited the Shwedagon Pagoda, the National Archive, the National Museum, the Dawei Special Economic Zone, as well as a school operated with cooperation between the Governments of Thailand and Myanmar and schools under Her Royal Highness patronage. 1.5 The Socialist Republic of Vietnam H.E. Mr. Nguyen Tan Dung, Prime Minister of Vietnam, made an official visit to Thailand on 23 July 2015 and presided over the 3 rd Joint Cabinet Retreat with H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand. The two countries agreed to increase trade, investment, and connectivity. They agreed to support academic, scientific and technological cooperation, and started the negotiations on a treaty of extradition. 30 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

32 2. Southeast Asian Countries Thailand strengthened cooperation with countries in Southeast Asia in all aspects. This was in order to drive a strong ASEAN Community in all areas, be it agriculture, fisheries, food, energy, security, connectivity, science, technology, and the tackling of transnational problems including disasters, terrorism, transnational crimes and maritime security. 2.1 The Republic of Indonesia H.E. Mrs. Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, visited Thailand and met with H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, on 2 April They discussed the strengthening of cooperation between the two countries, including the tackling of illegal fishing. 2.2 The Republic of Singapore In a bilateral discussion during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Retreat on 27 January 2015, H.E. Mr. K. Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Law, expressed his support to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand for Thailand s proposal for the compilation of lists of commonalities on the ASEAN China consultation on the drafting of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. They also discussed cooperation in economics, education, defence and security during the latter s visit to Singapore on 4 5 June During his visit to Singapore on June 2015, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, called on President Tony Tan Keng Yam and met with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong for the Singapore Thailand Leaders Retreat. The two prime ministers reiterated the importanceof institutional linkages between the two countries and witnessed the signing of (1) a revised Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement; (2) the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Cruise Tourism; (3) an MOU on cooperation in the fields of broadcast, audiovisual, animation Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 31

33 and digital media; and (4) an MOU on promoting economic cooperation between the Singapore Manufacturing Federation and the Federation of Thai Industries. 2.3 Brunei Darussalam During his official visit to Brunei on 2 4 February 2015, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, had an audience with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. He also had a bilateral discussion with Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brunei, to forge cooperation including in the Halal food industry. He also had a chance to visit the Bio Innovation Corridor of the country. During his official visit to Brunei on March 2015, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, and the Sultan of Brunei witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on agricultural cooperation between the two countries. They agreed on an exchange of best practices in alternative energy and the halal food industry. 32 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

34 2.4 The Republic of the Philippines During his official visit to the Philippines on 6 7 April 2015, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Albert F. Del Rosario, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, pressed for the holding of a bilateral meeting on trade and security. During his official visit on August 2015, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Benigno Aquino III, President of the Philippines, agreed on the promotion of a partnership for prosperity between the two countries. Thailand and the Philippines will promote cooperation on all fronts, including security, energy, agriculture and connectivity. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 33

35 Chapter 2 Promoting Thailand s Constructive Role in the ASEAN Community The ASEAN Community was officially established on 31 December As the ASEAN National Secretariat of Thailand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborated with concerned agencies in driving Thailand towards the ASEAN Community in terms of laws and regulations, awareness raising, as well as Thailand s contribution to the ASEAN Community and the strengthening of ASEAN s role in the international community. 1. Driving Thailand toward the ASEAN Community At the meeting of the inter-agency committee for ASEAN Community preparation, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 16 February 2015, all concerned agencies discussed the challenges and opportunities and prepared Thailand s positions, including Thailand s Action Plans for the ASEAN Community from At the meeting chaired by the Prime Minister of Thailand on 8 May 2015, the progress was reported on the establishment of ASEAN Center of the Royal Thai Police, the ASEAN Narcotics Cooperation Centre, the ASEAN Centre of Military Medicine, and the ASEAN Cultural Centre. 1 Each of the three pillars of the ASEAN Community also reported on the idea of drafting Thailand s Action Plan for the ASEAN Community Thailand s Action Plan for the ASEAN Political-Security Community, drafted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defence, with contributions from all concerned agencies was endorsed, by the inter-agency committee for ASEAN Community preparation in July The first one is the internal unit of the Royal Thai Police; the second and the third are ASEAN mechanisms that are located in Thailand. 34 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

36 In terms of binding laws, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs proposed an enactment of legislation for the implementation of the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, issued in 2015, and ratified the Protocol to the ASEAN Charter on the Dispute Settlement Mechanisms in As assistant to the secretariat to the legal working group of the Thailand-ASEAN Preparation Committee, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also helped the Office of the Council of State to coordinate with concerned agencies in gathering laws that need to be issued and initiated in 2015 in order to create long-lasting benefits and to prevent negative effects. On the economic front, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborated with all concerned agencies in promoting national and regional economic interests, and in implementing Thailand s international commitments. This included the support for the protection of ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve Secretariat or APTERR Secretariat in Thailand, as well as the support for the elevation and protection of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office or AMRO in Singapore, which will support the implementation of the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralization. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs played a role in providing advice on international law for the undertakings. 2. Public Awareness Raising The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized several outreach programmes to raise public awareness in 10 provinces around the country in The Ministry also organized an ASEAN Festival in May 2015, a ceremony to commemorate the 48 th Anniversary of the Establishment of ASEAN, a short-film and video-clip contest in September 2015 that allowed the public to exchange views and experiences on the ASEAN Community, as well as a project in which the Ministry provided 10 schools in different provinces with books, learning materials, and computers to establish ASEAN libraries or learning centres for both students and the general public. In addition, training, lectures, and seminars for academic institutes, which were held by the Ministry with support from volunteering professionals, included the ASEAN Music & Dance Connectivity 2015 and Special Lectures entitled From Association to Community and ASEAN and Regional Connectivity, a seminar entitled ASEAN Connectivity: Challenges and Opportunities and My ASEAN, Our Dreams, and the ASEAN Journalist Club Forum entitled ASEAN Media: Opportunities and Challenges. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 35

37 The Ministry also produced news, articles, short documentaries, and advertising spots to be publicized through various channels including the AEC Plus on Channel 3HD, Connectivity on TGN, What s Happening on PPTV, and A Moment with Diplomats on NBT, as well as through FM and AM According to the public opinion polls conducted in 2015 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with Bangkok Poll, the people s awareness of the ASEAN Community had increased from per cent in 2013 to per cent in Thailand and ASEAN Cooperation in On Centrality, Peace, and Security As ASEAN was to become a strong community in political-security, economic and socio-cultural aspects, Thailand cooperated with all her ASEAN friends in promoting ASEAN centrality and ASEAN s close collaboration with partners for peace and prosperity. At the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting, the 12 th ASEAN Political-Security Community Council Meeting (APSC), and 16 th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) on 26 April 2015 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the ASEAN Foreign Ministers discussed the strengthening of ASEAN mechanisms, as well as ASEAN Centrality in regional architecture as suggested by Thailand. In discussing regional issues, the ASEAN Foreign Ministers appreciated Thailand s role as the country coordinator for ASEAN China dialogue relations. They reiterated the importance of the effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, the negotiation on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, and the implementation of agreed Early Harvest Measures such as the establishment of hotlines among senior officials of Foreign Ministries and among search and rescue agencies of ASEAN and China, along with a drill on planning for maritime search and rescue. In terms of Thailand s and ASEAN s contribution to the global community, Thailand was supported by all ASEAN members as the ASEAN candidate for the United Nations Security Council non-permanent membership in , as was expressed at the Informal ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (IAMM) in September Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

38 At the 27 th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on November 2015, in which ASEAN leaders declared the establishment of the ASEAN Community on 31 December The leaders agreed to promote cooperation to tackle challenges coming from integration and closer connectivity including haze pollution, drugs, crimes, human trafficking, disaster, irregular migration, and cyber crimes, as well as terrorism and extremism. 3.2 On Development and Prosperity Thailand has deemed sustainable development key to global peace and prosperity. The ASEAN Ministerial Statement on the occasion of the 70 th Anniversary of the United Nations, proposed by Thailand, expressed ASEAN s wish for complementing the ASEAN Community s Post-2015 Vision 2 and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in order to uplift the livelihood of the people of Southeast Asia. Thailand and ASEAN members shared the vision of ASEAN unity and the strengthening of ASEAN from within. For the ASEAN Community to be strong, ASEAN members must cooperate closely in agriculture and production bases that truly benefit ASEAN people. The Thai Prime Minister reiterated this message at the 27 th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on November On People and Society Thailand attaches importance to a people-centred ASEAN Community, and in his participation in the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on April 2015 under the theme of Our People, Our Community, Our Vision, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, proposed the building of a connection with the younger generation, especially young entrepreneurs, in order to strengthen ASEAN s economy. 2 It was later endorsed as the ASEAN Community Vision Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 37

39 Thailand s proposals for the promotion of sustainable agriculture, food security, and the strengthening of ASEAN on all fronts were included in the Kuala Lumpur s Declaration on People-Centred ASEAN at the ASEAN Summit. At the 48 th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting, Thailand reiterated the importance of addressing regional challenges such as disasters, through the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance, and contagious diseases, for which Thailand was successful in organizing the ASEAN Plus Three Health Minister s Special Video Conference on the Threat of MERS-CoV in the Region in July On the post-2015 vision, Thailand stressed the principle of No one is left behind and Everyone has a stake so as to successfully build a people-centred ASEAN Community. The promotion of rights of persons with disabilities is another area Thailand was working on in At the ASEAN Japan Senior Officials Meeting on International Cooperation and Disability, held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Development Centre on Disability and the Government of Japan, it was proposed that persons with disabilities should be encouraged to take part in law and policy making and should have equal access to quality education. 4. ASEAN Cooperation with Dialogue Partners In terms of security, ASEAN and China aimed to strengthen their strategic partnership declared in At the ASEAN China Senior Officials Meeting in Beijing on 3 4 June 2015, ASEAN expressed appreciation for China s cooperation in initiatives covering many aspects. At the Post-Ministerial Conference +1 Session with China (PMC+1) in Kuala Lumpur on 5 August 2015, Thailand handed over the task of country coordinator for the ASEAN China dialogue 38 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

40 relations to Singapore. During Thailand s coordination from July 2012 to August 2015, Thailand made contributions to ASEAN China cooperation, especially by enhancing the progress in the ASEAN China dialogue on the drafting of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. The enhanced consultations and dialogue resulted in the ASEAN China agreement on the two lists of commonalities in 2014 and 2015 respectively, to be used for the drafting of the COC. This was done in tandem with the promotion of the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, particularly the Early Harvest Measures. As a result, in 2015, ASEAN and China agreed on the establishment of a hotline between senior officials of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of ASEAN countries and China in response to maritime emergencies. At the 30 th ASEAN Japan Forum on June 2015 in Phnom Penh, ASEAN supported a proactive contribution to peace by Japan, an ASEAN strategic partner since 2011, in accordance with international law, such as Japan s cooperation with the United States in disaster relief and humanitarian assistance in the Philippines. After the elevation of their dialogue relations to a strategic partnership in 2010, ASEAN and the Republic of Korea agreed at the ASEAN ROK Foreign Ministers Meeting in August 2015 to implement the Plan of Action to Implement the Joint Declaration on the ASEAN Republic of Korea Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity ( ). Thailand supported the cooperation between ASEAN and the ROK in non-traditional security issues like transnational crimes, emerging diseases, terrorism, and cyber security. As soon as Thailand assumed the responsibility as the country coordinator for ASEAN EU dialogue relations starting from August 2015, Thailand produced the ASEAN Discussion Paper on Approaches Regarding a Roadmap for Elevating the ASEAN EU Enhanced Partnership to a Strategic Level (3 February 2016), which was to be developed into a Roadmap for elevating the ASEAN EU relations into a strategic partnership in the future. This was a good opportunity for both sides to learn from each other s strengths and to closely collaborate on all fronts, be it the tackling of transnational issues like migration and terrorism, trade and investment, or the cooperation in research and development in science, technology, and innovation. At the ASEAN EU Coordinating Committee Meeting on 13 October 2015, ASEAN and the EU shared an interest in maritime and environmental cooperation, border management, irregular migration and transnational crimes. At the ASEAN U.S. Dialogue on May 2015, ASEAN and the United States discussed a strategic partnership and agreed to collaborate even more closely on all fronts including on regional and international issues like maritime security, transnational crimes, the environment, climate change, and disaster management. At the Informal ASEAN US Ministerial Meeting on 30 September 2015, during the 70 th Session of UN General Assembly, the US emphasized the importance of ASEAN Centrality and supported ASEAN US Connectivity at all levels with emphasis on the rule of law, peace, and security, as well as on cooperation in tackling the problems of human trafficking, illegal fishing, and terrorism. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 39

41 With Australia, an ASEAN strategic partner since 2014, ASEAN pushed for the cooperation in tackling human trafficking in the region and in disaster management, especially in the frameworks of East Asia Summit and the Australia-Asia Program to Combat Trafficking in Persons (AAPTIP). Thailand also played an active role in transforming the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) from a forum for confidence building into a forum for implementing preventive diplomacy. Thailand hosted the ASEAN Regional Forum Track 1.5 Preventive Diplomacy Symposium in collaboration with New Zealand and the United States on 1 2 July ASEAN and New Zealand, as well as ASEAN and the United States also elevated their relations to a strategic partnership in In terms of economic and social agendas, at the ASEAN Plus Three Senior Officials Meeting in June 2015, the meeting discussed the elevation of the ASEAN+3 Macro-economic Research Office (AMRO) in Singapore to the level of an international organization, the investment through Asian Bond Markets Initiative, the promotion of an ASEAN Rice Reserve, and the utilization of the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralization, which is a large financial reserve for the region. At the ASEAN New Zealand Ministerial Meeting on 5 August 2015, during the 48 th ASEAN Foreign Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, and at the ASEAN New Zealand Commemorative Summit on 22 November 2015, ASEAN and New Zealand agreed to promote a strategic partnership focusing on education, training, and leadership, as well as on trade, agriculture and development cooperation. During the 27 th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on November 2015, the leaders of ASEAN and China witnessed the signing of the Protocol to Amend the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation between ASEAN and the People s Republic of China. The Thai Prime Minister, together with other ASEAN leaders and the leaders of Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea and New Zealand, also issued a Joint Statement on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Negotiations, stating that the leaders look forward to the conclusion of the RCEP negotiations in Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

42 Chapter 3 Enhancing Thailand s Relations with Strategic Partners The Ministry of Foreign Affairs promoted visits and meetings with friendly countries to reinforce relations amid changes and reforms of the country. As a consequence, relations and cooperation with strategic countries were strengthened to forge security and prosperity together. 1. The Americas and the South Pacific 1.1 The United States of America Thailand and the United States reaffirmed their strategic and comprehensive cooperation, including peace and security, as reflected in discussions at various levels. In a bilateral meeting in New York on 27 September 2015, H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Anthony Blinken, Deputy Secretary of State of the United States, agreed to collaborate even more closely in bilateral and multilateral forums, including the ASEAN US framework, in tackling human trafficking, climate change, and other non-traditional security issues, as well as in promoting environment preservation and public health, and in enhancing regional peace and security. H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, welcomed 29 leading American companies from the US ASEAN Business Council (USABC) on 7 August It was the USABC s 10 th annual visit with the purpose of receiving updates on Thailand s political and economic progress and the reform process in Thailand as well as the country s preparedness for the ASEAN Community. The delegation paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister M.R. Pridiyathorn Devakula along with Ministers and high-level representatives of several agencies including the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Industries, the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, and the Bank of Thailand. The delegation was pleased with the development and reform measures in Thailand and reaffirmed their confidence in investing in Thailand and in enhancing trade and investment between the two countries. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 41

43 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand hosted the 5 th Thailand US Strategic Dialogue on 16 December 2015, co-chaired by Mr. Apichart Chinwanno, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Daniel Russel, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs. The two countries discussed ways to enhance cooperation in various frameworks including the Lower Mekong Initiative (LMI), the East Asia Summit (EAS), and the ASEAN US Strategic Partnership. They reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace and stability, ensuring maritime security and safety, and the value of Thailand US defense cooperation, and looked forward to continuing to implement the 2012 Joint Vision Statement on defense and security cooperation. The two sides also identified practical ways to expand their comprehensive partnership to benefit their respective countries, the region, and beyond. In particular, Thailand and the United States agreed to hold the first Joint Commission Meeting under their bilateral Science and Technology Agreement in Thailand in the first half of The two countries also looked forward to expanding trade and investment ties. 1.2 The Commonwealth of Australia Australia and Thailand continued their comprehensive cooperation, especially in terms of security, education, trade and investment. H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Julie Bishop MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, met at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 8 May Both sides discussed ways to promote Thailand Australia long-standing relations and close cooperation in such areas as defense, expansion of bilateral trade and investment, and education. They agreed to deepen cooperation in anti-human trafficking under the Bali Process and the Australia-Asia Program to Combat Trafficking in Persons (AAPTIP). 42 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

44 Both Foreign Ministers jointly presided over the inauguration ceremony of the New Colombo Plan which is Australia s initiative to promote exchanges and understanding of Thailand and the Indo-Pacific region among Australian students. Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also met with Honourable Steven Ciobo MP, Member of Parliament and Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 31 August Both sides discussed ways to expand trade and investment under the Thailand Australia Free Trade Agreement and multilateral cooperation under the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). 2. Latin America Thailand discussed the strengthening of cooperation with countries in Latin America in the fields of science, technology, innovation, public health, medical sciences, bio-pharmacy, agriculture, alternative energy, defense and security, human security, and the tackling of transnational crimes. 2.1 The Republic of Costa Rica Before the 7 th FEALAC FMM, on 20 August 2015, Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Luis Guillermo Solís Rivera, President of Costa Rica, during which bilateral relations and how to increase business contacts between Thailand and Costa Rica were discussed. On the same day, Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, also paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Manuel Antonio Gonzalez Sanz, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica. They discussed the possibility of the opening of a Costa Rican Embassy in Thailand, ways to increase Costa Rica s engagement in ASEAN and the exchange of support in the international community, since both are members of the Human Security Network. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 43

45 2.2 The Federative Republic of Brazil On 11 June 2015, Mr. Vitavas Srivihok, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and Mr. José Alfredo Graça Lima, Undersecretary General for Political Affairs II of the Ministry of External Relations of Brazil, co-chaired the First Meeting of Political Consultations between Thailand and Brazil in Brasilia, the Federative Republic of Brazil. The two sides explored means to promote exchanges of knowledge and experiences between Thailand and Brazil in areas of mutual interest, especially, defense, science, technology and innovation as well as culture and sports. 2.3 The Republic of Colombia H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, had a bilateral discussion with H.E. Mr. Juan Manuel Santos, President of Colombia, during the 23 rd APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Manila on 18 November The two countries were ready to build up comprehensive cooperation and also considered the establishment of a business council. Thailand also expressed readiness to look into the possibility of negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with Colombia. Furthermore, both sides agreed on an exchange between their defense colleges, cooperation between their navies, and cooperation in tackling drugs and crimes. 2.4 The Republic of Peru H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, had a bilateral discussion with H.E. Mr. Ollanta Humala, President of Peru, during the 23 rd APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Manila on 19 November The two countries discussed ways to enhance their relations in various aspects, particularly in economic-related issues which included a comprehensive free-trade agreement between Thailand and Peru, exchanges between business sectors, the possible cooperation of potential business sectors, and the promotion of strategic relations with Thailand. 44 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

46 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Embassy of Peru in Bangkok organized a reception to celebrate the 50 th Anniversary of Thailand-Peru Diplomatic Relations on 10 November 2015 at Vithes Samosorn Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. Mr. Apichart Chinwanno, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Felix Denegri, the Peruvian Ambassador to Thailand, co-hosted the reception. 2.5 The United Mexican States The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Embassy of the United Mexican States organized a reception at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand to commemorate the 40 th Anniversary of Thailand Mexico Diplomatic Relations on 28 August 2015 at Vithes Samosorn Hall. Mr. Noppadon Theppitak, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and Mr. Adolfo Garcia Estrada, Charge d Affaires, Embassy of the United Mexican States in Bangkok, co-hosted the reception, in which there was a cultural performance by the Department of Fine Arts, Ministry of Culture as well as musical performance by a Mexican band, Maria Café. 2.6 The Republic of Cuba Mr. Apichart Chinwanno, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand met with H.E. Mr. Marcelino Medina Gonzalez, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, on 6 November 2015 during the latter s visit to Thailand. Both sides discussed the strengthening of cooperation in trade and investment, public health and medical sciences, medicinal development, especially that of bio-pharmaceutical products, agriculture, tourism, alternative energy, and sports which were the areas of mutual interest. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 45

47 2.7 The Republic of Chile Mr. Vitavas Srivihok, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Alfredo Labbé-Villa, Director-General for Foreign Policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile, co-chaired the Fourth Meeting of Political Consultations between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of Chile in Bangkok on 25 November The two sides exchanged views on a wide range of issues, including political and economic situations in Thailand and Chile as well as ways to expand bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, agriculture, technical cooperation, education, sports, science, technology and innovation. They also discussed cooperation at the regional and multilateral levels, under the frameworks of APEC, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Forum for the East Asia and Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC), the Pacific Alliance, and the G77. The Thai and Chilean delegations expressed satisfaction that the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries has entered into force on 5 November 2015 and agreed to encourage their private sectors to utilize the FTA through network building and promoting exchanges and visits between the peoples and the private sectors of the two countries. 3. The Pacific Islands Thailand and the Pacific Island countries discussed the enhancement of cooperation in many areas including agriculture and the sufficiency economy. On 30 May 2015, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, delivered the opening remarks at the Second Thailand Pacific Island Countries Forum (TPIF) at the Sukosol Hotel, Bangkok. The Forum was attended by Heads of Government, Ministers, and Senior Officials from 9 Pacific Island countries, namely, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Marshall Island, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu. Experts from 46 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

48 Thai government agencies, private sector, and universities joined the Forum as panelists and contributors. Representatives from the Australian Embassy, the New Zealand Embassy, and other International Organizations such as FAO, UNESCAP, WHO, and UNDP were present as observers. The Forum, held under the theme Enhancing Thailand Pacific Islands Partnership for Sustainability, was chaired by Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed Thailand s interest in expanding cooperation and sharing knowledge in the fields of agriculture, biodiesel energy, fisheries, disaster management, and public health. The discussion during the meeting was divided into 3 sessions: 1) Development Partnership in which Thailand announced a Three-Year TPIF Development Partnership Programme ( ) and discussed a grant of scholarship for youths of the Pacific Island countries to study in Thailand; 2) Sustainable and Social Development with a discussion on widening cooperation in sustainable development and the sufficient economy model, which covered various issues such as disaster management, climate change, and public health, and there was a visit to the Khao Hin Sorn Royal Development Study Centre, Chachoengsao Province, and the OTOP Fair at Muang Thong Thani to learn about community enterprise development; 3) Economic Cooperation, exploring possible cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture, tourism, and information technology. The possibility of future knowledge-sharing and assistance in development projects were also proposed in the areas of eco-tourism and sustainable fisheries. During 31 August 3 September 2015, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister as special envoy of H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister, attended the 3 rd Pacific Island Development Forum (3 rd PIDF) in Suva, Republic of Fiji. On 2 September 2015, the Deputy Prime Minister was invited to the opening ceremony of the 3 rd PIDF under the theme Building Climate Resilient Green/Blue Pacific Economies, in which the Deputy Prime Minister had the opportunity to address Thailand s role in tackling climate change and introduced plans for sustainable Green and Blue Economies to the leaders and high-level representatives of 15 PIDF member states and 19 non-member states. Furthermore, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed Thailand s readiness to exchange experiences and methods of development with Pacific Islands in all fields, especially education. Also, Thailand is willing to bilaterally provide scholarships to Pacific-Islands students, as part of Annual International Training Courses under Thailand Pacific Islands Forum (TPIF), for 3 years. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 47

49 The Republic of Fiji During the 3 rd PDIF, the Deputy Prime Minister paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Epeli Nailatikau, President of Fiji, and H.E. Mr. Frank Bainimarama, Prime Minister of Fiji, on 1 September Both nations signed the MOU on Technical Cooperation, which illustrated Thailand s readiness to initiate training programmes and provide postgraduate scholarships. In addition, Thailand initiated The Three-Year Cooperation Plan in fields of mutual interest such as community development based on the sufficiency economy, agriculture and human resource management as well as the establishment of a learning centre. 4. East Asia 4.1 The People s Republic of China Thailand and China strengthened their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership at all levels, including in the fields of security, counter-terrorism and transnational crimes, governance and human rights, education, trade and investment, tourism, culture and people-to-people relations. H.E. Mr. Meng Jianzhu, member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Secretary of the Committee of Political and Legal Affairs under the CPC Central Committee, as the special envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping, called on H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, on 5 February The two countries discussed economic and security cooperation, counter-terrorism and the tackling of transnational crimes, drugs, and illegal migration. 48 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

50 H.E. Mr. Peng Qinghua, Secretary of the Communist Party of China, Guangxi Autonomous Region, paid a courtesy call on H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, during his official visit to Thailand on 2 April Both sides witnessed the signing of the MOU on the Establishment of Thailand Guangxi Working Group to serve as a mechanism to promote cooperation between Thailand and Guangxi in various areas as well as to address any challenges on trade and investment. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand visited China to receive H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn during her royal visit to China on 3 5 April 2015 to take part in the celebration of the 40 th anniversary of Thailand China diplomatic relations. H.E. Mr. Yang Jing, State Councilor and Secretary-General of the State Council, met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 7 May 2015 as guest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As the representative of the Chinese Government, H.E. Mr. Yang Jing gave educational equipment to the Royal Thai Government to present to H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on her 60 th Birthday Anniversary to be used in royal development projects. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 49

51 H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs met with H.E. Mr. Luo Haocai, former Vice Chairman of the 10 th National Committee of the Chinese People s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the former President of the China Society for Human Rights Studies on 20 May Both sides exchanged views on governance and the promotion of human rights. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs represented the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs in welcoming H.E. Mr. Luo Baoming, Secretary of the Communist Party of China, Hainan Province, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 27 July The Chinese side wished to strengthen cooperation in Buddhist studies with Thailand, to encourage Thai investment in Hainan, and people-to-people cooperation, particularly under the framework of the sister cities of Hainan and Phuket. In a bilateral discussion between H.E. Mr. Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 4 August 2015 during the 48 th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, both sides reiterated the determination to strengthen bilateral cooperation. H.E. Mr. Wang Yi invited the Prime Minister of Thailand to attend the 12 th China ASEAN Expo in Nanning, China, as country of honour, and invited the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs to visit Beijing to celebrate the 40 th anniversary of Thailand China diplomatic relations and to join the Lancang Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers Meeting in Jinhong in October They also appreciated the cooperation in the ASEAN China framework. 50 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

52 Mr. Chaisiri Anamarn, Advisor to Minister of Foreign Affairs, represented H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, in welcoming H.E. Mr. Zhu Xiaodan, Governor of Guangdong Province, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 23 September They discussed ways to enhance Thai - Guangdong cooperation especially in trade and investment, tourism, culture and people-to-people relations. 4.2 Japan Japan and Thailand reinforced their academic, business, and technical cooperation. The Prime Minister of Thailand met with H.E. Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, to forge bilateral cooperation. This included technical cooperation in rail technological development, business cooperation, and the development of the Dawei Special Economic Zone. The Thai Prime Minister also met with the Japanese Prime Minister during the 3 rd United Nations World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Sendai, Japan, on March The two sides discussed rail cooperation, agricultural trade and skill development for Thai automobile workers. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 51

53 In the discussion between the two Prime Ministers during the 7 th Mekong Japan Summit in Tokyo on 4 July 2015, the two countries followed up on technical cooperation. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also discussed civil aviation cooperation with H.E. Mr. Fumio Kishida, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Thailand and Japan also discussed education and creative-economy cooperation, as proposed by H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, in a bilateral discussion with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan on 16 November 2015 during the 23 rd APEC Summit and the 27 th APEC Ministerial Meeting. 4.3 The Republic of Korea The Republic of Korea and Thailand strengthened their cooperation in the fields of peace and security. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Republic of Korea met on 29 September 2015 at the UN Headquarters in New York to discuss the promotion of bilateral relations, particularly in the field of security cooperation, including participation in United Nations peace-keeping missions. 52 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

54 4.4 The Democratic People s Republic of Korea The DPRK and Thailand discussed development cooperation including in the areas of agriculture and public health. H.E. Mr. An Jong Su, Director of the Workers Party of Korea (WPK) Light Industry Department and Member of the WPK Central Committee, along with H.E. Mr. Kim Su Gil, Chairman of the Pyongyang WPK City Committee, visited Thailand on 13 March This was the first high-level visit to Thailand from the DPRK in 10 years. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, visited the DPRK on May 2015 on the 40 th anniversary of Thailand DPRK diplomatic relations. Both sides discussed the development of bilateral cooperation, especially in public health and cultural exchanges. On the same occasion, H.E. Mr. Ri Su-yong, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the DPRK, visited Thailand on 8 11 August 2015 and discussed academic and technical cooperation with Thailand. The DPRK Foreign Minister visited the Mae Fah Luang Foundation, the Amata Nakorn Industrial Estate, and the Charoen Pokphand Group to learn about the sufficiency economy, industrial management, and agricultural business respectively. He also gave a special lecture to Thai businessmen about investment opportunities in the DPRK and reassured them regarding their protection. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 53

55 In a bilateral discussion with H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, on 28 September 2015 during the 70 th UN General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Ri Su-yong, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the DPRK, expressed interest in Thailand s agricultural techniques, particularly rice production. 5. Europe 5.1 The Russian Federation Thailand and Russia enhanced their cooperation in the fields of agriculture, energy, investment, and security, as well as academic exchanges. H.E. Mr. Denis Manturov, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, paid an official visit to Thailand on 9 January 2015 as guest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. During his visit, H.E. Mr. Manturov paid a courtesy call on H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand. Moreover, H.E. Mr. Manturov also co-chaired the 6 th Session of the Joint Russian-Thai Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in Moscow on 15 July Both sides considered the issue of regulations on the import of Thai food and agricultural products and the promotion of agricultural knowledge and innovation. Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, co-chaired the Thai-Russian Political Consultations in Moscow on March 2015 on enhancing bilateral relations. On 8 April 2015, H.E. Mr. Dmitry Medvedev, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, paid an official visit to Thailand. During his official visit, H.E. Mr. Medvedev discussed trade facilitation and business cooperation with H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand. The two Prime Ministers witnessed the signing of bilateral Memorandums of Understanding on energy cooperation, cultural cooperation, narcotics control, and investment promotion, as well as the Joint Implementation Plan on Tourism Activity between Thailand and Russia ( ). 54 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

56 During the official visit to Russia during July 2015, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, met H.E. Mr. Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, on 16 July Both sides discussed the development of partnership cooperation and academic exchange. Moreover, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn also had a meeting with Mr. Georgy Poltavchenko, Governor of Saint Petersburg, on 17 July The United Kingdom The United Kingdom and Thailand reaffirmed their readiness to enhance academic and technical cooperation for Thailand s reform. H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presided over the opening ceremony of the exhibition Forward into the 5 th Century of Thailand UK Relations at the Central Embassy Department Store on 7 March Sir Julian King, Director-General of Economic and Consular for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, met with Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, on 24 March 2015 to discuss the promotion of trade and investment as well as cooperation in post-2015 Development Goals. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 55

57 In a bilateral discussion with H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, at the UN Headquarter in New York on 29 September 2015, H.E. Mr. Hugo Swire, Minister of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, expressed the United Kingdom s academic and technical support for Thailand s reform. 5.3 The Kingdom of Spain In a bilateral discussion between H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and H.E. Mr. Ignacio Ybanez, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Spain, at the UN Headquarter in New York on 26 September 2015, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in all aspects. The State Secretary expressed Spain s support to Thailand on her role as country coordinator for ASEAN EU dialogue relations for the next three years in order to promote the ASEAN EU strategic partnership in the future. 5.4 The Republic of Turkey H.E. Mr. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, paid an official visit to Thailand on 17 March During his visit, H.E. Mr. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu paid a courtesy call on H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, and had discussions with H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, on 17 March Both sides agreed to elevate their relations into a strategic partnership and to expedite negotiation on the Free Trade Agreement between Thailand and Turkey. 56 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

58 6. South Asia, Central Asia, Middle East and Africa Thailand strengthened cooperation in the fields of connectivity with South Asia, resource preservation with Central Asia, security with the Middle East, and development with Africa. 6.1 The Republic of India During the official visit to India and the participation in the 7 th Edition of the Delhi Dialogue in New Delhi, India, during March 2015, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand met with H.E. Mrs. Sushma Swaraj, Minister of External Relations of India, and H.E. Mr. Manohar Parrikar, Minister of Defence of India. Both sides agreed to speed up the negotiations on the Thailand India FTA and to promote academic cooperation. During the 7 th Thailand - India Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation Meeting on 29 June 2015, co-chaired by the foreign ministers of both countries, Thailand and India agreed to explore the possibilities of linking part of the East-West Economic Corridor in Thailand with the East Coast of India. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 57

59 6.2 The Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka H.E. Mr. Maithripala Sirisena, President of Sri Lanka, paid an official visit to Thailand on 1 4 November 2015 on the occasion of the 60 th anniversary of diplomatic relations. They agreed to expand trade and investment in the fields of agriculture, construction, hotel and services, jewelry, fisheries, medicine and medical supplies. President Maithripala Sirisena brought the sacred relics of Lord Buddha for an exposition in the Phutthamonthon District from 2 16 November 2015 to commemorate this special occasion. On 3 November 2015, the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and H.E. Mr. Somkid Jatusripitak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand addressed the Thailand-Sri Lanka Business Forum, jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking, with the participation of both Sri Lankan and Thai business delegations. 58 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

60 6.3 The Republic of Tajikistan The Prime Minister of Thailand and H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon, Prime Minister of Tajikistan, met on 28 September 2015 during the 70 th UN General Assembly. The two countries agreed to cooperate in bilateral and multilateral frameworks, especially trade and investment and water preservation, as well as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Asia Cooperation Dialogue. 6.4 The Kyrgyz Republic H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, met with H.E. Mr. Erlan Abdyldaev, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyz, on 29 September 2015 during the 70 th UN General Assembly to promote bilateral trade and investment. 6.5 The State of Qatar H.E. Mr. Mohamed Abdulla Al-Rumaihi, Minister s Assistant for Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand on 13 February 2015 to enhance bilateral relations on the occasion of the 35 th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 59

61 6.6 The United Arab Emirates The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs made an official visit to the UAE on February 2015, on the occasion of the 40 th Anniversary of Thailand United Arab Emirates diplomatic relations. He met with H.H. Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE. Both ministers signed 2 landmark MOUs, namely (1) Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Thailand and United Arab Emirates on Security Cooperation and (2) Memorandum of Understanding between Thailand and United Arab Emirates on Promotion and Protection of Investments. Both MOUs aim to increase the sharing of information between security agencies and facilitating economic cooperation between the two countries. 6.7 The Republic of South Africa At the 4 th Thai South African Senior Officials Meeting in Pritoria on 4 8 June 2015, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and South Africa agreed to promote visits at all levels and enhance cooperation on all fronts, especially trade and investment, trilateral cooperation, and the issuance of work permits for Thai workers. 6.8 The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia During the 3 rd Conference on Financing for Development (FFD) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on July 2015, H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, met with State Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, State Minister of Foreign Affairs for Business Diplomacy and Diaspora Affairs, and Commissioner for Trade and Industry of Ethiopia. They discussed the promotion of trade and investment, development cooperation, and the Agenda 2063, which is the African Union s vision of unity, prosperity, and peace for the next 50 years. 60 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

62 6.9 The Kingdom of Morocco At the 2 nd Thai-Moroccan Political Consultations co-chaired by Mr. Apichart Chinwanno, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and H.E. Mr. Nasser Bourita, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Morocco, held in Rabat, Morocco, on 21 December 2015, both sides aimed to enhance their cooperation in various aspects, particularly, tourism, trade, education and people-to-people ties. They signed agreements on cooperation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, on technical cooperation and on exemption of visas for diplomats, officials, service personnel and special passports The Republic of Togo In a bilateral meeting between H.E. Mr. Robert Dussey, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Togo, and H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 13 February 2015, both parties signed the memorandums of understanding on cooperation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and between the Chambers of Commerce, as well as the memorandum of understanding on technical cooperation. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 61

63 Chapter 4 Playing a Constructive and Responsible Role in the International Community 1. Regional and Sub-regional Levels The Ministry of Foreign Affairs carried forward the national policy in which Thailand provided financial and technical support for infrastructure development that connects Thailand with neighbouring countries. The Ministry also organized or participated in the discussions concerning common challenges in order to come up with concrete solutions. In so doing, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed Thailand s readiness to collaborate as development partners and reiterated Thailand s role in disseminating knowledge on the sufficiency economy through the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 1.1 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, attended the 23 rd APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Manila, Republic of the Philippines, on November 2015, under the theme Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World. At the meeting, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, stressed the importance of quality and sustainable growth in Thailand by the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand as well as the structural reform needed to achieve the goal of a creative and innovative economy. He proposed four approaches to meet the challenges of regional economic growth, which are people-centered community development, human capital development, inclusive development, and preparation for an aging society, in which Thailand will cooperate with all APEC economies in driving the APEC Action Plans in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 62 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

64 1.2 Lower Mekong Initiative (LMI) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the United States Department of State co-hosted the 7 th Lower Mekong Initiative (LMI) Regional Working Group (RWG) Meeting in Bangkok on January Participants from six LMI countries, namely Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, Viet Nam and the United States of America, as well as representatives from the Friends of the Lower Mekong (FLM), such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Republic of Korea, Australia, the European Union (EU) and the ASEAN Secretariat attended the event. The meeting focused on the cross-cutting challenges of water, energy and food security, as well as women empowerment and the promotion of gender equality, which were high on the agenda of the LMI. Outcomes of the meeting would be incorporated into the drafting of the LMI Plan of Action Extraordinary Meeting of the Friends of the Lower Mekong The Extraordinary Friends of the Lower Mekong (FLM) Sub-Cabinet Level Meeting on Mekong Sustainability was held during 2 3 February 2015 in Pakse, Lao PDR, to share experiences and practical approaches, and also strategies for a sustainable Mekong. Participating FLM members include Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the European Union, the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank and the Mekong River Commission. Thailand plays an important role in the LMI as a Development Partner with the United States. Mr. Noppadon Theppitak, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who led a Thai delegation to the FLM stressed the importance of the water, energy and food security nexus, especially at a time when the Mekong Region is exploring various means to support the economic integration of the ASEAN Community. The meeting agreed that cooperation among countries with shared borders in the fields of innovative agriculture, efficient water and energy management is the prerequisite for sustainable development of the Mekong region. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 63

65 1.4 Mekong Japan Cooperation H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, attended the 7 th Mekong Japan Summit in Tokyo on 3 4 July 2015 together with the leaders of Japan, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam. The meeting endorsed the New Tokyo Strategy 2015, describing the vision for the development of the Mekong region during with an emphasis on quality development, which includes stable and sustainable development and concern for environment. At the 8 th Mekong Japan Foreign Ministers Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on 5 August 2015, which H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, attended, the Foreign Ministers of participating countries endorsed the Mekong Japan Action Plan for the Realization of the New Tokyo Strategy 2015 in order to promote concrete action for quality growth. 1.5 Mekong Republic of Korea Cooperation During the 5 th Mekong Republic of Korea Foreign Ministers Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on 5 August 2015, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand reiterated the role of Thailand in knowledge sharing of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, as the country coordinator for agriculture and rural development, together with the principle of Saemaul Undong or the New Village Movement, which is a collaboration between the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. This knowledge-sharing programme has been carried out for the purpose of strengthening communities in the respective participating countries in tandem with the Comprehensive Training Program to Enhance Rice Productivity in the Mekong Region. 1.6 Mekong Lancang Cooperation (MLC) H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs, co-chaired the 1 st Mekong Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Foreign Ministers Meeting in Jinghong, Yunnan, China, with H.E. Mr. Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, on 12 November The Foreign Ministers of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam also participated in the event. 64 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

66 The meeting discussed the way forward for the MLC framework, initiated by Thailand and endorsed by China and other member countries. The objective of the MLC framework is to work in tandem with other sub-regional cooperative framework partners to enhance practical and value-added cooperation in promoting sustainable development, reducing developmental disparity, and supporting the creation of the ASEAN Community. During the first phase, the meeting agreed to focus on 5 issues, namely (1) regional connectivity (2) industrial cooperation (3) cross-border economic cooperation (4) water resources management and (5) agricultural cooperation and poverty reduction. The focus on these issues reflects the importance of realizing the sustainable development agenda by 2030 and serves as an important example of South-South cooperation, which would complement Thailand s role as the Chair of the Group of 77 (G77) in Boao Forum for Asia At the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference in Boao, Hainan Province, China, on March 2015, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand reiterated the importance of the drive towards a common destiny, as Asia will provide the world s fuel for economic growth. 1.8 Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) On 30 September 2015, Mr. Chutintorn Gongsakdi, Director-General of the Department of International Economic Affairs and Thailand SOM Leader, chaired the Asia Cooperation Dialogue Senior Officials Meeting (ACD SOM) on the sidelines of the 70 th Session of the UN General Assembly at the UN Headquarter in New York. 21 representatives from the Member States as well as Mr. Bundit Limschoon, Secretary General of the ACD Provisional Secretariat, participated. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 65

67 The Meeting witnessed the transfer of Chairmanship from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Thailand for the upcoming year (September ). High on Thailand s agenda were the advancement of ACD cooperation in all dimensions, particularly the ACD Regional Connectivity and ACD Vision 2030 Initiatives. 1.9 East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) On 20 May 2015, H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, chaired the 3 rd Vice Foreign Ministers Meeting on East West Economic Corridor (EWEC) Development in Bangkok. The Meeting was attended by the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam, and the representative of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Discussions focused on cross-border transport facilitation and how to address the remaining challenges to further enhance trade volume, investment and people-to-people contacts, as well as to improve the well-being of people of the four EWEC countries. The Meeting noted with satisfaction the significant progress on infrastructure development along the EWEC and its extensions Ayeyawady Chao Phraya Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS) During his participation in the 6 th ACMECS Summit in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, on June 2015, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, reiterated the vision of ACMECS to enhance both the benefits to the people and the will of the Government of Thailand to drive ACMECS to promote security and stability, prosperity, and sustainability of the peoples and nations of ACMECS. The meeting endorsed the Nay Pyi Taw Declaration and the ACMECS Action Plan H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, stated Thailand s agendas as follows: (1) transportation connectivity which Thailand supported and continues to support through the development of regional infrastructure; (2) trade and investment facilitation through the use of local currency in business transaction and the elevation of business transparency; (3) promotion of tourism cooperation through the five countries, one destination project; (4) support for sustainable development through the tackling of emerging diseases like MERS and avian influenza, the improvement of access to healthcare services, food security, and human resource development Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, attended the 2015 OSCE Asian Conference in Seoul, Republic of Korea, on 1 June 2015 under the theme The Changing Global Security Environment and Visions of Multilateral Security Co-operation in Asia. During the conference, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand exchanged views with his counterparts from Korea and Switzerland along with the OSCE Secretary General. 66 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

68 The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the conference, expressing support for strengthening cooperation between the OSCE and Asia in tackling regional and global security challenges. This included cooperation between ASEAN and the OSCE in the areas of human resource development, extremism prevention, disaster risk reduction through an exchange of experiences with the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center in Bangkok, as well as countering human trafficking through Thailand s 5P strategy; namely, Policy, Prosecution, Protection, Prevention and Partnership. At the 22 nd OSCE Ministerial Council Meeting in Belgrade, Serbia, on 3 4 December 2015, H.E. Mr. Virasakdi Futrakul, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, as head of the Thai delegation, delivered a speech at the plenary session. In his statement, the Vice Minister expressed his condolences to the victims of the terrorist attacks occurred recently in many parts of the world and Thailand s readiness to stand with the international community in fighting against terrorism. He stressed that sustainable development and interfaith dialogue should also be promoted to tackle the root causes of extremism. Moreover, Thailand also showed her readiness to share and exchange experiences in addressing the problem of irregular migration as Thailand just hosted the 2 nd International Conference on Irregular Migration in the Indian Ocean during 3 4 December 2015 in Bangkok. At the meeting between the OSCE Troika and Asian Partners for Co-operation in Belgrade on 4 December 2015, the Vice Minister reiterated Thailand s commitment to enhance cooperation on common peace and security issues where Asia and the OSCE can work together, for example counter-terrorism and extremism, disaster risk reduction, and human and narcotics trafficking. As the only ASEAN Member State in the OSCE, the Vice Minister expressed Thailand s willingness to be a bridge between the OSCE and ASEAN to support a closer partnership Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 67

69 between the two regions. Moreover, Thailand also reiterated her readiness to host the 2016 OSCE Asian Conference on 6 7 June, 2016 in Bangkok The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand hosted the ASEM Symposium on the Future Direction of ASEM in Bangkok on 30 March 2015, in which there were 26 panelists and moderators and approximately 270 participants from all ASEM members. In his opening remarks, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, offered Thailand s 5 visions, namely: (1) ASEM economic integration through enhanced connectivity and economic activities; (2) ASEM as a region of peace and stability through increased cooperation to address traditional and non-traditional threats to security; (3) respect for cultural and religious diversity, as well as tolerance and moderation, to combat radicalism and extremism; (4) cooperation to raise people s living standards; (5) a more efficient ASEM Process that is more effective and able to promote concrete and tangible collaboration. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, participated in the 12 th ASEM Foreign Ministers Meeting (ASEM FMM 12) in Luxemburg on 5 6 November The ASEM FMM 12 was convened under the theme Working Together for a Sustainable and Secure Future and comprised 2 Plenary Sessions that focused on (1) Climate Change, 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and (2) Connectivity and the Future of ASEM. The Foreign Minister stressed the importance of connectivity, be it transport linkages, economic interactions, transfer of technology, or cultural exchanges, which will be a key issue in driving the future direction of ASEM. He also addressed common challenges faced by Asia and Europe such as irregular migration. 68 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

70 1.13 Forum for East Asia Latin America Cooperation 7 th Foreign Ministers Meeting (FEALAC FMM) Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary co-chaired the 7 th Foreign Ministers Meeting of the Forum for East Asia Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC FMM) in San Jose, Costa Rica, with H.E. Mr. Manuel Gonzalez Sanz, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica, on 21 August Thailand and Costa Rica had been working closely together as respective regional coordinators of FEALAC during The meeting discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between the two regions in various areas, including education, science, technology, innovation, healthcare, culture, youth, climate change and the environment, SMEs, sustainable development, and people-to-people cooperation as well as ways to promote cooperation between FEALAC and financial and investment institutions from both regions. During the past two years, Thailand proposed and implemented various projects including FEALAC Health and Healthcare and Community Empowerment Network, FEALAC Women Entrepreneurs Network, FEALAC Friendship Schools Network, as well as FEALAC Business Forum. Furthermore, Thailand has initiated and pushed forward the FEALAC STI Policy Dialogue and FEALAC Network of Institutions engaged in Research and Control of Tropical and Emerging Diseases. Thailand also sought endorsement from the FEALAC FMM for the institutionalization of the FEALAC Business Forum. At this meeting, Thailand proposed 3 important initiatives: firstly, a Guideline for the FEALAC Working Process; secondly, the institutionalization of the FEALAC Business Forum in favor of the Forum s continuity; thirdly, the proposal for the promotion of regional projects, in addition to the national ones, within FEALAC in which every member could participate, with at least a country coordinator from each region. All three Thai proposals were well received by the FEALAC members and appeared in the San Jose Declaration issued at the end of the meeting Pacific Island Development Forum H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister as the special envoy of H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister, joined the 3 rd Pacific Island Development Forum (PIDF) in Suva, Republic of Fiji. In the opening ceremony of the 3 rd PIDF under the theme Building Climate Resilient Green/Blue Pacific Economies, the Deputy Prime Minister informed the forum of Thailand s role in tackling the issue of climate change. He also introduced plans for sustainable Green and Blue Economies to the leaders and high-level representatives of 15 PIDF member states and 19 non-member states. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 69

71 Furthermore, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed Thailand s readiness to exchange experiences and methods of development with Pacific Islands in all fields, especially education. He expressed Thailand s willingness to bilaterally provide scholarships to the Pacific Island countries, as part of Annual International Training Courses, in accordance with the three-year cooperation plan, which was mentioned during the Thailand Pacific Islands Forum (TPIF) Asian-African Strategic Partnership H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, attended the Asia-Africa Summit, as well as the commemoration of the 60 th anniversary of the Asian-African or Bandung Conference and the 10 th anniversary of the establishment of Asia-Africa strategic partnership, in Jakarta and Bandung, Indonesia, during April The Prime Minister reiterated Thailand s desire to expand cooperation with Asian and African countries in all aspects, including trade and investment, regional connectivity, and development cooperation, particularly through sharing of knowledge and experience in the sufficiency economy in order to achieve sustainable development. In joining the Asian African Ministerial Meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia, on 20 April 2015, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, emphasized Thailand s commitment under the New Asian-African Strategic Partnership. He confirmed Thailand s support for cooperation among developing countries to promote peace and prosperity as well as Thailand s readiness to provide technical cooperation for Asia and Africa, especially with regard to His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. 2. Global Level In driving Thailand s foreign policy and advancing national interests, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs represents the Royal Thai Government at international forums and negotiations to protect and promote Thailand s interests in all dimensions. The Ministry also provided advice and recommendations to the Government and other agencies on policies and strategies related to foreign affairs in order to promote international peace and security, as well as on issues that have significant impacts on the nation, the region, and the international community. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supports the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms and the proposal for more seats on the Council for those underrepresented regions, as well as the idea of an interim category of non-permanent members with the possibility for immediate re-election. 70 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

72 Moreover, Thailand encouraged more interaction between the Council and other UN bodies. Through these proposals, Thailand believes that it will improve the transparency and efficiency of the Council. Additionally, in order to understand and cope with new challenges, the Ministry organized regional and international meetings to discuss and address issues of global importance such as irregular migration in the region, landmines, human trafficking, disaster risk reductions, sustainable development, problems related to narcotic drugs, and the promotion of alternative development, among others. 2.1 International Peace and Security On 19 January 2015, the UNSC held an Open Debate under the topic Inclusive Development for the maintenance of International Peace and Security at the UN Headquarters in New York. H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, delivered a statement in support of inclusive development, in tandem with peacekeeping and conflict resolution. His statement highlighted the complexity of issues affecting global peace and security and the role that the UNSC must take to address these issues. He also emphasized the promotion of inclusive political, economic and social policies, as well as support for the empowerment of women, as the key to sustainable peace. He had also pledged his support for the #HeForShe initiative for gender equality. At the 4 th Global Conference on Cyberspace in the Hague, the Netherlands, on 16 April 2015, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand informed the meeting that Thailand was in the process of improving related law to increase the effectiveness of cyber-crime suppression. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 71

73 Thailand and the United States co-hosted a Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) Sherpa Meeting during February 2015 in Cha-Am and Hua Hin. Ms. Pornprapai Ganjanarintr, Director-General of the Department of International Organizations, co-chaired the Meeting with Mrs. Laura Holgate, Senior Director, WMD-Terrorism and Threat Reduction, National Security Council. This Sherpa Meeting was the second in the series in order to prepare for the 2016 NSS, scheduled to be held in the United States in The Sherpa Meeting was well attended by representatives of Member States as well as the international organizations which are observers of the NSS process. The discussions focused on how to take forward the work of strengthening the nuclear security architecture both at the national and global levels. In this regard, Thailand encouraged and proposed measures to further enhance and strengthen nuclear security through international cooperation, capacity building efforts, public awareness raising and the participation of all stakeholders. On the evening of 12 February 2015, Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, hosted a dinner in honour of participants to the Sherpa meeting. In his dinner remarks, he emphasized the need for enhanced international cooperation as an important tool in strengthening nuclear security. Ms. Pornprapai Ganjanarintr, Director-General of the Department of International Organizations, chaired the Regional Roundtable on The Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Weapons and Prospects for a Ban Treaty, which was jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and the Norway-based International Law and Policy Institute (ILPI), during March The Regional Roundtable provided a forum for the participants -- representatives of Governments from the Asia-Pacific region, as well as from international academia and civil society who are active in this field -- to exchange views on how to further promote the Humanitarian Initiative by addressing problems and obstacles, and closing the legal gap in the prohibition of nuclear weapons. The main idea was to bring the principles of humanitarian law into the consideration of the impact of nuclear weapons and to commence a process to negotiate a prohibition treaty, which would contribute substantively towards efforts on complete nuclear disarmament. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand hosted the Bangkok Symposium on Landmine Victim Assistance: Enhancing a Comprehensive and Sustainable Mine Action on June The meeting exchanged views and experiences as well as good practices on mine victim assistance. At the opening session, Mr. Norachit Sinhaseni, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, reiterated that humanitarian assistance has always been the cornerstone of Thailand s foreign policy. Thailand has been a State Party to the Mine Ban Convention since 1999 and has tried to ensure the link between the assistance to mine victims and the promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which enables a more efficient and coordinated system to provide assistance to mine victims, in a comprehensive manner, from emergency care to long-term rehabilitation. 72 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

74 At the general debate of the 70 th Session of the UN General Assembly under the theme The United Nations at 70 the road ahead to peace, security and human rights at the UN Headquarters in New York on 29 September 2015, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, reiterated that development and human rights promotion, along with international cooperation, are prerequisites to sustainable peace and security. The Prime Minister also stated that Thailand, as an open and responsible medium-sized developing country, has a comprehensive view on peace and security. Based on a long track record at the United Nations and its continued contribution to the work of the United Nations since Thailand became a member in 1946, it made a bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term Thailand stands committed to ensure international peace and security and pledged to be a bridge-builder between members and non-members of the United Nations Security Council, between developed and developing countries and between different cultures and faiths. Thailand believes that international peace and security, development and human rights are mutually reinforcing and integrally linked and thereby must be addressed in a holistic manner in order to achieve sustainable peace. Further, in 2016, Thailand would be the Chair of the Group of 77, the biggest group of 134 developing countries focusing on a socio-economic development agenda within the UN framework. Thailand attaches high importance to focusing on the strengthening of the cooperation between developing countries and in working on common aspirations to transform visions into tangible achievements. 2.2 Human Rights Protection As a moderate and active country with regard to human rights, Thailand has strived to offer a bridge-building role among different views on human rights issues. Thailand was a member of the Human Rights Council from and its President between June 2010 June 2011, and today remains an active observer. Thailand has prioritized the rights of vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly and the disabled. One thematic focus of Thailand is on strengthening technical cooperation to promote human rights, for which Thailand has led a core group to draft a resolution on this issue every year. At home, Thailand recognizes its human rights challenges and is committed to address them in consultation with various stakeholders including civil society. At the regional level, Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 73

75 Thailand has played an active role in the formation of regional human rights mechanisms in Southeast Asia and will continue to make these mechanisms matter for the people. At the international level, Thailand is determined to remain a constructive force in promoting tolerance and fostering the spirit of cooperation to advance the world s human rights agenda. At the 28 th session of the Human Rights Council, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, stressed the connection between human rights and development as well as security, particularly in the process of identifying the post-2015 development agendas. During his participation in the Global Leaders Meeting on Gender Equality and Women s Empowerment: A Commitment to Action, organized by the Government of China and the United Nations Women in New York, United States, on 27 September 2015, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, stated the role of Thailand as Chair of the 59 th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women in March 2015 and Thailand s work on women through such measures as universal education and legal improvement. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, participated in a meeting titled How to Advance Women, Peace and Security Agenda in the Post-2015 Development Agenda, a side event at the 70 th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, on 30 September Thailand was invited to be a co-host with Italy, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Kenya, Namibia, and Spain. The meeting was aimed at promoting the role of women in conflict mediation and post-conflict reconstruction in accordance with the United Nations Security Resolution 1325 which emphasized the increase in the role of women in peace keeping. 74 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

76 2.3 Human Trafficking In April 2015, the Prime Minister declared that prevention and suppression of trafficking in persons is on the national agenda and reiterated the government s policy on zero tolerance for human trafficking and in prosecution against human trafficking, including that committed by government officials. The policy is integrated with the efforts to register migrant labour and to tackle forced labour in the fishing industry and to prevent human trafficking. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, delivered the opening remark at the First Bali Process Regional Symposium on Trafficking in Persons for the Purposes of Labour Exploitation, co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Australian Attorney-General s Department, at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel, Bangkok, on 25 March The forum aimed to identify how labour trafficking has affected member countries and explore avenues for cooperation to address this issue. Combating and preventing all forms of trafficking in persons, including labour trafficking, is one of the top priorities for Thailand s National Agenda. The symposium helped guide the region s collective efforts in prosecution, protection, and prevention of human trafficking as well as addressing risk factors that lead to such exploits. It was attended by counter-trafficking experts from the Bali Process member countries and organizations in a multi-stakeholders framework with invited panelists from NGOs, private sector, academia, and international organizations. At present, membership of the Bali Process includes 45 countries across the Asia-Pacific as well as related International Organizations such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to combat new threats. 2.4 Disaster Management During his participation in the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Sendai, Japan, on March 2015, H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, reiterated Thailand s commitment in collaboration with the international community with an emphasis on preparedness and capacity building, and expressed readiness to exchange experiences, particularly community preparedness based on His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 75

77 H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, presided over the opening ceremony of the Development Cooperation Seminar on Disaster Risk Reduction: Implementing the Sendai Framework for Resilient Development in Thailand, in Bangkok on 11 September 2015, which was co-organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior and the United Nations in Thailand. The seminar aimed to raise awareness on disaster risk reduction, focusing on Thailand s experience in providing disaster management and humanitarian assistance to many countries in the region as well as its early implementation of the Sendai Framework. There were over 100 participants from governmental organizations, development practitioners and NGOs, as well as a fair representation from the diplomatic corps in Bangkok. 2.5 International Cooperation in Public Health In the past 3 decades, the problems of global and regional health have become increasingly important and dynamic. In the past it was related to the development level of the country, as seen by the quality of health of mothers and children, infectious diseases, malnutrition, and lack of hygiene and sanitation. Today, global health concerns have taken a new form to include epidemics such as AIDS, SARS, Avian flu, Influenza 2009, Ebola virus, MERS, Zika virus, as well as an increase in Anti-Microbial Resistance. Thailand drafted the National Global Health Strategy to be used for and a plan for an implementation and monitoring, protection and control scheme for epidemics for , in correspondence with the International Health Regulations 2005 and the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) as the guiding framework. 2.6 Migration Problems Thailand has held a long tradition of humanitarianism for many decades. Thailand has taken an active role in the recent years in rallying regional cooperation, particularly through the hosting of two Special Meetings on Irregular Migration in the Indian Ocean and one Special Retreat, as well as through our participation in the Bali Process. H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, represented the Prime Minister of Thailand in chairing the opening ceremony of the Development Cooperation Seminar on Migration, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the United Nations Country Team in Thailand in Bangkok on 14 May The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized the Thai Government s commitment in solving migration problems and regulating the labour sector. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized the First Meeting on Irregular Migration in the Indian Ocean in Bangkok on 29 May 2015, with participation from 17 countries along with the IOM, UNHCR, and UNODC to discuss an enduring solution for migration problems. The Meeting attached importance to addressing the problems at root causes, particularly human trafficking and other 76 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

78 transnational crimes as well as socio-economic development. Meanwhile, the Royal Thai Government has provided humanitarian assistance to those irregular migrants at sea by sending floating platforms to provide necessary assistance, and dispatching air patrols to support the humanitarian assistance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand organized the Second Special Meeting on Irregular Migration in the Indian Ocean in Bangkok in 3 4 December 2015, with 18 countries and 6 international organizations participating. Thailand proposed an Action Agenda for 5 most affected countries to consider. Thailand also donated 100,000 US dollars to IOM to support a campaign to raise awareness on the dangers of irregular migration. 2.7 Sustainable Development Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), paid a courtesy call on H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 19 February She expressed appreciation for Thailand s leading active role in sustainable socio-economic development at the international level. She also expressed appreciation of Thailand s role in disaster management, especially the contribution of 10 million US dollars as initial funding for the ESCAP Trust Fund for Tsunami, Disaster and Climate Preparedness. On this occasion, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs restated Thailand s commitment in supporting the ESCAP in promoting sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific. He reiterated Thailand s willingness to collaborate with the United Nations in promoting the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy at the international level and to be a regional learning center on sustainable development through the models of royal-initiated projects. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand chaired the opening ceremony of the 2 nd Asia-Pacific Forum for Sustainable Development (APFSD 2015) in Bangkok on 21 May 2015, with the Vice President of Iran and ministers from more than 20 countries including Tonga, Pakistan, Japan, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Tajikistan, and high-level representatives from the United Nations participating. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 77

79 This is the second meeting of its kind after the inaugural session organized by the ESCAP and co-hosted by the Thai Government in Pattaya, Thailand, in The main theme was Strengthening Integration and Review for Sustainable Development in Asia and the Pacific, with an emphasis on the implementation and the follow-up of sustainable development projects. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand emphasized the importance of this meeting, in continuation of the inaugural session in Thailand last year, as a forum for countries from Asia-Pacific to present their views on ways to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and to develop the Post-2015 Development Agenda to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals. Thailand in this regard is willing to share her knowledge and experience on sustainable development based on His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand in collaboration with the Thailand Sustainable Development Foundation and the Mae Fah Luang Foundation organized an exhibition on sustainable development based on His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and a side-event seminar titled Sharing experiences on sustainable development in Bangkok on 29 May 2015, with the Executive Secretary of ESCAP, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, and representatives from Myanmar and UNODC as discussants. H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, delivered the opening statement at the 71 st Session of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok on 28 May 2015 under the main theme of Balancing the three dimensions of sustainable development: from integration to implementation. The Prime Minister of Thailand emphasized the sufficiency economy and people-centred development, particularly the strengthening of the agricultural sector, the improvement of people s livelihood, and the prevention of climate change. 78 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

80 At the meeting, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, as head of the Thai delegation, stated that Thailand had been carrying out the tasks of sustainable development by the implementation of His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in the improvement of people s livelihood such as the development of low-carbon society, disaster risk reduction, the improvement of people s access to funding and services, the reduction of development gaps and income, the strengthening of agricultural sector, and the access to the universal health coverage. H.E. Mr. Apichart Chinwanno, Ambassador of Thailand to France, as special envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, participated in the 39 th Annual Meeting of Ministers for Foreign Affairs of the Group of 77 (G77) on 24 September 2015 during the 70 th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States. The Thai Ambassador expressed his appreciation to the members of G77 for endorsing Thailand as Chair of G77 in New York in 2016, which reflected their confidence in Thailand. He reaffirmed Thailand s commitment in promoting an inclusive and democratic global economy, as well as in promoting the issues of common interests of the members of G77 and bridging the group with outside partners and international organizations. H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, attended the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit 2015 in New York on September The Prime Minister informed the meeting about Thailand s policies that placed an emphasis on farmers by solving the problems of farmers debts, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, developing agro-industries, exchanging local wisdoms, using new technologies, and enhancing partnerships in development and in South-South cooperation. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 79

81 In preparation towards the assumption of Thailand s Chairmanship of the Group of 77 in January 2016, which was endorsed by the 39 th Ministerial Meeting of the G77, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand hosted a workshop on Thailand s Chairmanship of the Group of 77 in 2016 in Bangkok on November The workshop was co-chaired by H.E. Mr. Virachai Plasai, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand to the United Nations in New York, and H.E. Mr. Kingsley Mamabolo, Permanent Representative and Ambassador of South Africa to the United Nations in New York and the current Chair of G77. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and H.E. Mr. Mourad Ahmia, Executive Secretary of the Group of 77 also joined the discussion. The workshop welcomed Thailand s theme for the chairmanship, namely, From Vision to Action: Inclusive Partnership for Sustainable Development as well as the five strategic goals which are as follows: (1) to push for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda; (2) to further strengthen cooperation among developing countries or South South Cooperation; (3) to enhance coordination among different chapters of the Group to ensure an efficient working mechanism and coherence; (4) to promote the collective interests of the Group in the relevant Main Committees of the United Nations General Assembly and relevant international forums, and (5) to explore alternative approaches to sustainable development, especially the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. 80 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

82 3. International Development Cooperation The Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is the main agency in charge of technical cooperation with other developing countries. The main areas of cooperation include education, public health, agriculture, and tourism and rural development. This is undertaken through many development projects, scholarships and training programmes, dispatching Thai volunteers and experts overseas, and providing equipments, as well as the application of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. 3.1 Technical Cooperation, Research and Development The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported and followed up on international technical cooperation between Thai agencies and foreign partners, with the purpose of exchanging technical knowledge and research and development. This included research and development cooperation in the fields of agriculture, agricultural products, and plant protection. Mr. Vichit Chitvimarn, Deputy Director-General of TICA, and the Thai delegation met with Professor Li Suoping, Director of Bee Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Beijing, China, on 14 December 2015, to follow up on the cooperation project titled Geographical Identification and Antimicrobial Activity Evaluation of Honey from Longan Flower between Thailand and China. The project is the cooperation between Maejo University, Chiang Mai, and Bee Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, under the Sino-Thai Joint Committee on Scientific and Technical Cooperation. Mr. Vichit Chitvimarn, Deputy Director-General of TICA, and his delegation met with Prof. Than Xingshan, Director of Plant Protection Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (GDAAS) and Prof. Lu Linhua, a researcher of the Plant Protection Research Institute, GDAAS, in China on 16 December The purpose was to follow up on the trilateral cooperation project on the assessment and warning system for communicable diseases in farmland between Thailand s Plant Protection Research Institute, GDAAS, and China s Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, under the Sino-Thai Joint Committee on Scientific and Technical Cooperation. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 81

83 3.2 Training and Knowledge Transfer Bilateral Cooperation Thailand has implemented bilateral cooperation to provide support for development of countries in different regions. Cooperation programmes in 2015 covered the fields of local product development,public health, food and forestry, and was done through the provision of grants and equipment,technical cooperation, training, study visits, and the dispatching of Thai volunteers and experts. (1) Local Product Development Ms. Suchada Thaibantao, Director-General of TICA, co-chaired the Workshop for the One Gewog One Product (OGOP) Development Project in Bhutan on 4 8 February The Workshop, initiated by His Majesty the King of Bhutan on the agricultural development for farmers, selected Paro as a pilot town for agricultural promotion, with an emphasis on Bhutan locally made products especially products from red rice, cane and bamboo as well as handicrafts and textiles. (2) Public Health On 24 January 2015, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Lao PDR signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the Development of the Champasak Hospital in Lao PDR. The Government of Thailand by TICA, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supported the Lao PDR for (1) the construction of the one-storey patient building, the centralized steam plant, and the waste water treatment plant, as well as landscape improvement around the building by using local vegetation from the Bolaven Plateau; (2) the provision of general and medical equipment particularly with regards to the operation and services in the emergency unit, and (3) capacity development. 82 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

84 H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, presided over the foundation stone laying ceremony for the construction of a drug addiction rehabilitation centre in the Phone Hong Hospital, Vientiane, Lao PDR, on 18 May The Thai Government provided financial support for the construction of the rehabilitation centre and medical equipment, as well as the rehabilitation and emergency training curriculums for the sustainable use of the centre s buildings. Mrs. Jitkasem Tantasiri, Director of the Thai Cooperation Branch II, TICA, joined the closing ceremony of the training course for officials from Maldives titled Drug Demand Reduction Project at Mahidol University, Thailand, on November The course was one of the activities under the project titled Capacity Building for the Health Workforce: Revitalization of Health Workforce between Thailand and Maldives which consisted of three curriculums: (1) Drug Demand Reduction Project; (2) Guidelines for the Strategic Route Map (training for trainers); and (3) Strategies for Health Promotion across Lifespan, which was a collaboration between TICA and the Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, under the Action Plan for Thailand Maldives Development Cooperation (3) Vocational Skills H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, visited the Vientiane Technical College on 18 May The Thai Government had provided support since 2010 for the renovation of training buildings and classrooms in various fields including auto mechanics and electrical engineering, construction, carpentry, sewing, food service, hotel management, and business management, as well as the training of personnel and study visits in Thailand. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 83

85 Ms. Suchada Thaibunthao, Director-General of TICA, co-chaired the 2015 Joint Review Meeting on the Thailand Bhutan Development Cooperation Programme ( ) in Thailand on September 2015 to review the implementation of the Action Plan The Meeting agreed to dispatch volunteers to Bhutan in the fields of spa instruction, furniture making instruction, computer hardware repair and networking instruction, floriculture and amenity landscaping, and mushroom cultivation, as well as to provide study and training grants in the fields of economics, engineering, nursing, education, and information and communications technology (ICT). (4) Food and Forestry TICA organized two training and study visit programmes for officials from North Korea which were (1) Forestry Reserve Management and (2) Food Security on the Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Point during the periods of December 2015 and December 2015 respectively Trilateral Cooperation Thailand has continued the cooperation with traditional donors and/ or new providers in providing development cooperation to other developing countries in the fields that Thailand has expertise in, such as vocational training for women, basic science, public health, agriculture, food and energy, engineering and technology, product standardization, and tourism management. (1) Vocational Skills Ms. Suchada Thaibunthao, TICA Director-General, led the Thai delegation to discuss academic cooperation between Thailand and the Philippines in the Philippines on January Both sides agreed to undertake trilateral cooperation by organizing a training programme entitled Women Empowerment and Entrepreneurship for Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Vietnam, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Timor-Leste. TICA organized the 1 st Thailand Philippines Bilateral Development Cooperation Meeting in Bangkok on October Both sides discussed academic cooperation within the bilateral and trilateral frameworks such as the agricultural and women entrepreneurship training programme to be implemented in 2016 focusing on the small and medium enterprises that are owned by women in the fields of food, homestay, Thai massage, tie-dyed cloth, agricultural and fish processing. 84 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

86 (2) Science and Technology TICA, together with the Thailand Research Fund under the aegis of the Royal Golden Jubilee Ph.D. Program, and the International Science Programme (ISP) at Uppsala University, Sweden, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on a Joint Fellowship Programme for Doctoral Studies under the Thai Swedish Trilateral Cooperation on 3 February The grants were awarded to doctoral students from Bangladesh, Nepal, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam to pursue doctoral studies for 2 years in Thailand and 1 year in Sweden, with opportunities to do research in the basic scientific fields of chemistry, mathematics, and physics. (3) Public Health Ms. Angsana Sihapitak, Deputy Director of TICA, chaired the opening ceremony of a training course titled Policy and Strategy Workshop on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control in Bangkok, Thailand, on 13 January TICA, in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), supported the ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, to be the host training agent for participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam. (4) Agriculture, Food, and Energy TICA, in collaboration with Israel s Agency for International Development Cooperation (MASHAV), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, and the Embassy of Israel in Bangkok, organized international training courses under the Memorandum of Understanding on Thailand Israel Development Cooperation, namely: 1. a training course on Greenhouse Crop Production and Management for 24 participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Thailand, held at Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen District, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand, on 1 14 February 2015; 2. a training course on Integrated Approaches for Small Scale Water Resource Management for 22 participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam, held at the Research and Development Institute (RDI), Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand, on November Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 85

87 TICA, in collaboration with JICA and Kasetsart University in Kamphaeng Saen, organized study visits and training programmes for policy makers from African countries under the Thailand Japan trilateral cooperation framework. The first set of study visits and training programmes was organized twice under the theme Promotion of Mechanization in Rice Sector for the Coalition of African Rice Development (CARD) Countries in the periods of 16 February 12 March 2015 and 23 November 18 December 2015 to promote rice productivity in CARD countries. The second one was organized under the theme Environmental-Friendly Rice Production, Sustainable Seed Propagation: Technology, Planning and Management during 3 June 5 August Participants in these programmes were from the Anglophone countries of Ethiopia, Gambia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda, and the Francophone countries of Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d Ivoire, Madagascar, Mali, Togo, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Guinea. TICA organized a study visit under the Buakaew Roundtable Internatoinal for Pacific Island Countries (PICs) under the title Tourism Promotion for Sustainable Development in Bangkok and Surat Thani Province on 25 February 1 March The purpose of the visit was to promote sustainable tourism and the sufficiency economy through demonstrations of local Thai dessert making, coconut collection using monkeys, and various types of traditional Thai housing. 86 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

88 TICA organized a study visit under the topic Community Development Based on the Sufficiency Economy 2015 for high-level representatives from Fiji in Bangkok, Samut Songkhram Province, and Nan Province on December The purpose was to share knowledge and experiences of Thailand s community development under His Majesty the King s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. (5) Engineering and Technology Mr. Wattanawit Gajaseni, Director of the Countries Partnership Branch (Bilateral and Trilateral), TICA, joined the opening ceremony of the training course titled Power Distribution system Engineering, Management and Technology at the Metropolitan Electricity Authority of Thailand in Bangkok on 27 November 2015 under the auspices of Thailand Japan trilateral cooperation. The course was organized for participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam on 1 28 November Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 87

89 (6) Tourism, Product Standardization and Hotel Service Mr. Wattanawit Gajaseni, Director of the Countries Partnership Branch (Bilateral and Trilateral), TICA, joined the closing ceremony of the training course entitled Training on Regulation and Standardization for Tourism Products and Services for Palestine in Bangkok and Sukothai Province during 26 April 2 May 2015, under the auspices of Thailand Japan trilateral cooperation. TICA in collaboration with JICA and Dusit Thani College organized two training courses on hotel management for participants from Myanmar, under the auspices of Thailand Japan trilateral cooperation, namely (1) Front Office Operation and (2) Restaurant Service during 28 September 2 October 2015 and 5 9 October 2015 respectively. 88 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

90 Chapter 5 Enhancing Thailand s Economic Competitiveness and Cooperation As one of the Ministries in charge of economic affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs plays a significant role in the global economic context to increase Thailand s competitiveness and economic cooperation with foreign partners at both public and private-sector levels. Economic cooperation included technical cooperation for infrastructure development, trade and investment, research and development in science, technology, and innovation, as well as service and digital economy development. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs connected Thailand and the world through various activities, be they Thai festivals, business matching, visits and study visits for businessmen and researchers, networking and research cooperation. These resulted in the popularity of Thai food and products, promotion of trade and investment, the introduction of knowledge and technology, academic and technical cooperation, and research and development cooperation in science, technology, and innovation to move Thailand s economy forward. 1. Thailand s Overseas Trade and Investment The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organizes Thai festivals, in cooperation with other Thai agencies and private sector as well as local Thai communities, in various parts of the world. Some of them have became local annual events like the Thai Festival in Tokyo, which is held every third week of May. These Festivals have made Thailand and Thai products well-known and helped promote both tourism and trade and investment. 1.1 Thai Festival and Exhibition H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, chaired the opening ceremony of the 16 th Thai Festival at Yoyogi Park in Tokyo on May The Festival was organized under the theme of rice, entitled Thai Festival 2015: have a RICE Day, as a celebration of the 88 th Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who contributed to the rice and agricultural development of the country. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 89

91 The Festival exhibited products from the Foundation of the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand, or the SUPPORT Foundation. It organized an exhibition on rice and farmers which emphasized rice and its products, rice and the way of life of the Thais, handicrafts from farmers wisdom, as well as food and desserts made from Thai rice. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs attended the 19 th Silk Road Economic Belt Expo in Xi an, Shaanxi Province, China, on May Thailand, the Republic of Kyrgyz, and the Republic of Georgia, were the countries of honour. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs delivered a speech under the exhibition theme Dialogue of Countries among the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21 st Century Maritime Silk Road, in which he expressed Thailand s readiness to play a responsible role in promoting regional connectivity. 1.2 Trade and Investment Network The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a Business Information Center that provides information and consultation to those who want to do business abroad especially SMEs, in terms of opportunities, regulation updates, and through the website: The website is connected to the websites of the Business Information Center of 32 Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General around the world. In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs promotion of visits and business matching led to the demands for Thai products, business and investment cooperation, and academic and technical cooperation. The Royal Thai Embassy in Brasilia led a business delegation from Brazil to Thailand during May The delegation, comprising representatives from Towa Retail and Wholesale Company, Mikami Asian Food Retail Shop, and Otis McAllister Company, ordered raw food materials from Thailand. The Royal Thai Embassy in Buenos Aires led a business delegation from Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay to visit Thailand during August The delegation which included representatives from Electronica Megatone S.A. and Saturno Hogar S.A. ordered air conditioners from Thailand. The Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington led a delegation of businessmen, investors, and experts from New Zealand to visit Thailand during September The delegation 90 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

92 comprised representatives from the ASEAN New Zealand Business Council, Miraka, Sealord, Fonterra, and Enviroplaz. The Embassy also led a delegation of businessmen and investors from New Zealand and countries in the jurisdiction, including a representative from Kiwi Plastic and the President of Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to visit Thailand during 20 December January The Enviroplaz Company signed an agreement with Aeroklas Company Limited, a member of the Eastern Polymer Group, on 11 January 2016, on joint investment in the production of Plaztuff plastic sheeting in Thailand. The Royal Thai Embassy in Manila led business delegations from the Philippines Carabao Center (PCC), the Philippines National Dairy Authority, and the Dairy Confederation of the Philippines to Thailand on 3 10 September 2015 and 4 9 September 2015 respectively. The delegations were interested in and purchased products and equipment for dairy produce from Thailand. The PCC enlisted Thailand as a country of best practices for dairy production in Asia. The Royal Thai Embassy in Amman led a business delegation from Jordan to visit Thailand and participate in the THAIFEX 2015 during May The delegation ordered food products from Thailand valued 4 million US dollars. The Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Dubai led a business delegation from the United Arab Emirates to visit THAIFEX 2015 in Thailand during May The delegation included the Al Maya Group, Shokri Hassan Trading, Gulf Agro Trading, and the Department of Economic Development. The Al Maya Group ordered Thai jasmine rice to be sold in the United Arab Emirates. Mr. Manopchai Vongphakdi, Director-General of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs, led a Thai delegation to Mozambique and Madagascar on January 2015, and met with the ministers and high-level officials concerned to discuss Thailand s academic cooperation and investment opportunities with both countries. 1.3 Business Seminars The Department of American and South Pacific Affairs, in collaboration with the Thai Royal Embassy in Brazil, organized a seminar entitled Brazil: Treasure of Latin America in Bangkok on 29 April Mr. Songsak Saicheua, Director-General of the Department of American and South Pacific Affairs, gave the opening address in which he informed the seminar of Brazil s economic potential and its role in the international arena. H.E. Mr. Pitchayaphant Charnbhumidol, Ambassador of Thailand to Brazil, as a speaker, gave an insight into business opportunities in Brazil. The panel agreed that there is huge potential in the Brazilian market in which Thai business could take advantage of. The business sector that could provide opportunities for Thai investors in Brazil include auto parts, food, agricultural industries, hotels, services, construction, furniture and electronics. Moreover, the panel discussed factors that might affect investment in Brazil, for example, sophisticated tax system, labor laws and cultural differences. The Ambassador stated that the Royal Thai Embassy in Brazil stands ready to equip Thai investors with all of the necessary information. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 91

93 The Department of East Asian Affairs, in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce of Thailand, organized a seminar titled Challenges and Opportunities in Trade and Investment with Vietnam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 5 August It was part of the Department s project to provide information about investment in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam to potential Thai investors. The Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized a seminar entitled Thailand s Strategy for the Middle East Market at Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Center, Central World, Bangkok on 13 August 2015, which was presided over by Mr. Vitavas Srivihok, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Approximately 250 participants from various branches, including food businesses, halal food, rice and agricultural produce suppliers, as well as hospitals, spas and jewelry businesses attended the seminar. The seminar provided participants with an update on current developments in the Middle East market, and guidelines on investment strategies and business opportunities in the region. Among the distinguished speakers at the seminar were the Ambassadors of Thailand to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Iran, as well as entrepreneurs with extensive experience in trade and investment in the Middle East. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized a seminar titled Myanmar Insight at the Queen Sirikit National Conference Centre in Bangkok on 17 August 2015 for local investors who are interested in doing business in Myanmar. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized Thailand s efforts in developing cooperation with Myanmar in all fields, especially in connectivity and investment, such as the establishment of the Dawei Special Economic Zone, to better facilitate Thai business opportunities. 2. Competitiveness in Science, Technology, and Innovation For long-term development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has supported the laying of a foundation for the nation s future, to which the Government attaches importance, be it the increase in competitiveness, research and development, or the restructuring of the economy towards energy-saving and eco-friendly products that benefit mankind. This has been done through several measures and activities: (1) The Drafting of Science Diplomacy Action Plan: The Royal Thai Government attaches importance to science, technology, and innovation as essential elements in enhancing the country s competitiveness. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has collaborated with the National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI) of the Ministry of Science and Technology 92 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

94 in drafting a Science Diplomacy Action Plan. The two Ministries gathered ideas and opinions from line agencies and are in the process of collecting comments from the Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General. (2) The Introduction of Technology and Expertise: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs helped introduce knowledge and expertise in various fields of science, technology, and innovation, as well as education to facilitate the enhancement of competitiveness in the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also supported technical cooperation and technology transfer. (3) The Organization of Study Visits: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs led delegations of researchers from foreign countries to Thailand and vice versa. These included the leading experts in medical devices and herbal products from Thailand visiting the United States and the promotion of networking between Thai and foreign researchers. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also organized a mission to Australia and New Zealand to increase cooperation in the areas of creative economy, innovation, education, and science and technology. (4) The Promotion of Cooperation: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs helped promote cooperation between agencies, organizations, and institutes of science, technology, and innovation within Thailand and foreign partners. This included the promotion of cooperation in STEM Education between Thailand and the United States. The activities undertaken to promote international cooperation in science, technology, and innovation were as follows: Following up on the visit to Norway by H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn during March 2013 and her Royal initiative in letting Thai scientists join the Norwegian team in Arctic research for long-term cooperation and resultant mutual benefits, the Royal Thai Embassy in Oslo invited an expert on the Artic and a Polar Ambassador to visit Thailand during November 2015 to give a lecture during a seminar on the Arctic and climate change at Chulalongkorn University. The event resulted in concrete cooperation, which was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding. On this occasion, H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presided over the signing ceremony of an MOU on Arctic Research Cooperation between Chulalongkorn University and the University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS), at Sra Pathum Palace, Bangkok, on 13 November The MOU was initiated by H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn after her visit to Norway in March 2013 to promote academic cooperation between Thailand and Norway in the fields of arctic research and climate change through the exchange of researchers and students. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 93

95 Thailand and the United States have attached increasing importance to cooperation in the development of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (STEM Education). In Thailand, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and related agencies collaborated in driving STEM Education as a national agenda with an aim to establish Thailand as a regional STEM Education centre. The activities conducted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs include the following: (1) In the discussion between Mr. Songsak Saicheua, Director-General of the Department of American and South Pacific Affairs, along with representatives from Thailand s science and technology agencies, and Dr. Geraldine Richmond, Special Envoy for the Lower Mekong Countries and Committee in the National Science Board, representing the United States Government, on 8 January 2015, Thailand and the United States agreed to create a research cooperation network between universities in both countries. They expressed interest in having cooperation in STEM Education, public health, energy and alternative energy, and the environment, as well as scientific and technological research and development. (2) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs participated in a meeting to draft the Thailand s 5-Year STEM Master Plan for , which was organized by the Institute for the Promotion of Teaching of Science and Technology (IPST) on 9 February The purpose of the meeting was to increase both students and teachers at the basic, vocational and higher educational levels, as well as to increase both middle-level and high-level skilled workers, to prepare for the 21 st century STEM Workforce. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported the Government s policy in promoting animation industry as part of digital economy, as it is also a field of cooperation under the Thai US Creative Partnership. The Royal Thai Consulate-General in Los Angeles invited Thai animation producers from the United States, who are all part of world renowned animation producing teams, to Thailand to meet with the Director-General of the Department of American and South Pacific Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Thailand on 9 February The Director-General informed both producers that under the Thailand US Creative Partnership, the two countries may consider having collaboration in the field of animation and encouraged the producers to give necessary advice and support to Thai students who wish to build a career in this field. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs played a supportive role in the cooperation between Thailand and the United Kingdom under the Newton UK Thailand Research and Innovation Partnership Fund or Newton Fund. The Fund was established in 2014 between science and research agencies of the two countries to promote cooperation in science, technology, and innovation in the fields of mutual interests. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported the project by providing opinions on the cooperation agreement and following up on the implementation. H.E. Mr. Mark Kent, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 14 January The Ambassador reaffirmed the United Kingdom s continued cooperation with Thailand, particularly under the Newton UK Thailand Research and Innovation Partnership Fund. It was on 13 January 2015 that the Ministry of Science and Technology in collaboration with the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Thailand jointly announced the 94 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

96 success of Newton UK Thailand Research and Innovation Partnership Fund on the occasion of the first anniversary of this British-Thai cooperation. The two sides also signed an agreement on the Leaders in Innovation Fellowship Programme between the Royal Academy of Engineering and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), and between the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Thailand Research Fund (TRF) under the Newton Fund. The implementation of the project in 2015 was successful with the provision of grants to Ph.D. students and researchers, altogether 500 people in 4 projects: (1) the RGJ Newton Doctor of Philosophy Programme; (2) the Newton Researcher Links Programme; (3) the Professional Development and Engagement Programme, and (4) the Leaders in Innovation Fellowship Programme. Under the Newton Fund in 2015, Thailand and the United Kingdom also cooperated in healthcare and rice research projects. The Royal Thai Embassy in Brussels, in collaboration with Thailand s National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office, organized the 1 st Thailand Belgium Science, Technology and Innovation Forum in Bangkok on 23 February The purpose was to build knowledge and discuss future collaboration between Thailand and Belgium in the fields of biomedicine, pharmacology, bio-industry, and biotechnology and translate them into concrete results. During the visit to Israel on June 2015, the Thai delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Science and Technology Development Agency, and the private sector had an opportunity to exchange views, knowledge, and contacts with leading Israeli science, technology and innovation organizations, such as the Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute, the Weizmann Institute of Science, and Terralab Ventures, leading to future collaboration and business partnerships between Thailand and Israel. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 95

97 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pursued Science Diplomacy by leading a Thai delegation to Belgium and the Netherlands on 7 11 July 2015 to discuss ways to expand cooperation in the fields of food, agriculture, biosciences, and pharmacology, and to enhance foreign confidence in Thailand s potential in these fields. The Thailand Trade and Economic Office in Taipei and the Science Excellence Center co-organized a seminar titled Knowledge Bank Project 2015: Biotech for Inclusive Growth at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 31 August It aimed to share knowledge from Taiwan with all related sectors in Thailand. Experts in the fields of economics, medical sciences, and biotechnology were invited to share thoughts and insights with different sectors in Thailand. H.E. Mr. Kriangsak Kittichaisaree, Executive Director of the Thailand Trade and Economic Office (Taipei), in collaboration with the BOI, led a Taiwanese business delegation to Thailand on 1 4 September 2015 to explore the possibility of investment and biotechnology development cooperation. 96 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

98 3. Vocational Education Cooperation The Ministry of Foreign Affairs took on Royal initiative of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn as well as the Royal Thai Government policies in enhancing vocational education cooperation with Germany to further promote human resources and socio-economic development. The Prime Minister of Thailand and the Ambassador of Germany to Thailand discussed the possibility of the establishment of a 2 nd Thai-German Technical School, the production of high-level technicians and the drafting of teacher capacity building and curriculum development on 4 November The purpose was to elevate the skills of Thai technicians to meet international standards. The Prime Minister assigned the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education to be in charge of this cooperative project. The Royal Thai Embassy in Berlin in collaboration with the IRA TEC Company of Germany organized the 1 st Train the Trainer programme on September Participants were vocational and technical school teachers from all over Thailand. The programme aimed to improve teaching skills of teachers at vocational and technical institutes. The Royal Thai Embassy in Berlin, in collaboration with the Senior Expert Service (SES) of Germany, selected German vocational experts in the fields of Mechanical Engineering, Communications Engineering, Production Engineering, Construction, Standardization, Electrical Metrology, Industrial Mechanics, and Metal Construction to be posted in vocational and technical schools in Thailand as academic advisors and curriculum developers. At the same time, the Royal Thai Embassy in Berlin selected 4 Thai vocational and technical school teachers to join the personnel development programme in Berlin. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 97

99 Chapter 6 Promoting Public Diplomacy The Ministry of Foreign Affairs works to promote understanding about Thailand in all aspects, to reinforce international confidence in the country and to enhance people-to-people relations and collaboration. The Ministry s efforts in promoting understanding on Thailand s political situation, reform process, as well as national policies and undertakings, done in close collaboration with line agencies, resulted in enhanced confidence and cooperation with friendly countries, including the transfer of knowledge and best practices to Thailand. 1. Thailand s Political Roadmap Throughout 2015, the Royal Thai Embassies, Permanent Missions, and Consulates-General around the world had been providing updates to foreign governments and private sectors on political developments in Thailand, the reform process, and the national policies that will move Thailand forward. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also organized briefings on Thailand s political roadmap for the diplomatic corps including one held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 16 September Thailand, ASEAN, and Global Community Mr. Noppadon Theppitak, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was invited to give a special lecture on ASEAN Thailand New Zealand Triangular Relations at the Asia Forum, Wellington, New Zealand, on 3 March The Asia Forum is a group of diplomatic, business, official and academic communities that meets monthly to exchange views on Asian political development and their impact on trade and investment. The Deputy Permanent Secretary talked about the role of Thailand in the development of ASEAN New Zealand relations in the socio-economic, cultural and politico-security terms, as well as political development in Thailand. 98 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

100 3. Measures to Tackle Human Trafficking and Illegal Fishing Following a series of discussions with Thai authorities since 2011, the European Union (EU) issued a yellow card to Thailand on 21 April 2015 as a formal notice for not taking sufficient measures in the fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. The yellow card does not introduce trade sanctions on EU imports of Thai fishery products. However, the Royal Thai Government has put top priorities to tackle IUU fishing. Some of the undertakings carried out by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are as follows: (1) H.E. Mr. Virachai Plasai, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand to the United Nations, as the Head of the Thai negotiation team, held two rounds of dialogue with the EU in The dialogues have contributed significantly to the progress of the Thai fisheries reform, in terms of tackling IUU fishing and labour abuses in the fisheries sector in line with international standards as well as restoring trust and confidence between Thailand and the EU, which resulted in the extension of time for Thailand to solve the problem. The EU acknowledged Thailand s ongoing efforts in the improvement of systems and enforcement of laws and regulations in support for sustainable and responsible fisheries. (2) The Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide disseminated updates and information concerning the progress of the Royal Thai Government in solving the problem of IUU fishing to related stakeholders in the EU including government agencies, members of the European Parliament, importers, wholesalers, and retailers of their host countries. (3) In the discussion between Thailand and the European Union in Belgium on 3 7 March 2015, Mr. Songsak Saicheua, Director-General of the Department of American and South Pacific Affairs, as head of the Thai delegation, reiterated the Thai Government s commitment to tackle the problem of human trafficking and illegal fishing and also set the guidelines for cooperation between Thailand and the EU. (4) During the visit to the United States on April 2015, H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with concerned agencies to explain Thailand s operations to tackle the problems of human trafficking and illegal fishing, including criminal law enforcement measures and the registration of foreign workers. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 99

101 (5) On 16 October 2015, H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Ms. Kari Johnstone, Acting Director of the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, US Department of State, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. The Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated the Thai Government s determination to tackle the problem of human trafficking through collaborative efforts with concerned agencies, effective law enforcement, prosecution of corrupt officials, and the protection of victims. Other discussed issues included illegal fishing and irregular migration in the Indian Ocean and the readiness of the U.S. to support and cooperate with Thailand. 100 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

102 (6) The Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, published news releases in Le Monde, a French newspaper, on 18 September 2015, and in El Pais, a Spanish one, on 18 September The Improvement of Civil Aviation Thailand s civil aviation had faced issues related to compliance with the Standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and international standards in terms of Significant Safety Concerns, including the certification of Transportation of Dangerous Goods by Air, the issuance of Air Operator Certifications, and Air Operator Certificate Re-certification, as well as in terms of the structure of civil aviation organizations. These resulted in the ICAO listing Thailand as a red flag country following an unsatisfactory response to a safety audit. Working with other concerned agencies, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pursued the following measures: (1) H.E. Pisan Manawapat, Ambassador of Thailand to the United States, who was assigned by the Royal Thai Government as Head of the Working Group, had discussions on Thailand s efforts with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States and with the EU Commission respectively. (2) The Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide, especially in the United States and Europe, promoted understanding about the situations and the progress of our undertakings. Our tasks received acceptance and created confidence which resulted in the EU not including Thailand in the Air Safety List for the end of 2015 and in the middle of 2016 rounds. 5. Royal Initiatives and Sustainable Development The Ministry of Foreign Affairs promoted the sharing of knowledge on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in development, royal initiatives or royal development projects to support sustainable development. In 2015, the following activities were implemented: (1) Inviting experts to give special lectures on royal development projects to Thai communities and the general public in Belgium and Germany on March 2015 as well as in Chicago, St. Louis, and Los Angeles, United States, on September 2015; Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 101

103 (2) Supporting the 3 rd Youth Volunteer Project for Learning Royal Initiatives at Puparn Royal Development Study Centre, Sakon Nakhon Province, on 1 24 June 2015 by selecting and inviting Thai and foreign youths living or studying abroad to participate in the project; (3) Organizing and publishing public relations media to promote knowledge and understanding about Thailand, which included a mobile exhibition titled Working Princess to celebrate the 60 th anniversary of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and the book entitled Thailand s Sustainable Development Sourcebook for distribution to the Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide; (4) Supporting the Thailand Sustainable Development Foundation by coordinating with foreign counterparts to facilitate the organization of a series of roundtable meetings, which the Foundation participated or co-hosted in the UK, US, Canada, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Spain, and Japan from January to August 2015 as well as seminars in Geneva and Paris in June 2015; (5) Issuing explanation or clarification to foreign media in cases of one-sided or misleading reports about Thailand or the Monarchy; (6) Publishing the message of the Prime Minister under the topic Stronger Together in the New York Times, 25 September 2015, which describes the Thai Government s policy to enhance socio-economic development to eradicate poverty and reduce discrepancies in society through the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy and sustainable development in accordance with the Prime Minister s message at the 70 th UN General Assembly, and publicizing an advertising spot entitled Stronger Together produced by the Government Spokesman Bureau through the Consumer News and Business Channel (CNBC) during the Prime Minister s participation in the 70 th UN General Assembly in September Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

104 6. Internal Security In order to promote understanding about the situation in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs consistently coordinated with the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and relevant non-governmental organizations, to provide accurate information for their reports on the situations in the areas. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized a visit to the Southern Border Provinces on May 2015 for the diplomatic corps from 15 of the OIC member countries in order to observe the situation on the ground and receive updates and insights directly from relevant parties. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs executives visited the Southern Border Provinces on 2 4 September 2015 to exchange views with local authorities regarding the situation and the implementation of the Government s policy and efforts in addressing the problems in the area. 7. Promoting Thailand in Muslim Countries 7.1 Muslim Calendar: In 2015, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs disseminated information about Thailand by publishing a Muslim Calendar with photographs selected from a photo contest. The pictures reflected the ways of life of Muslim Thais in Thai society. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 103

105 7.2 Media Cooperation Network: In addition to the invitation of the media from ASEAN and Muslim countries to visit Thailand to foster ties and to promote people-to-people relations, which in 2015 involved the media from Iran and all ASEAN member countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched an exchange programme in 2015 between government officials of Thailand and pilot countries of Russia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Lao PDR. The purpose was to promote understanding and to exchange good practices among one another in both public policy and diplomacy. 8. National Resource Protection H.E. Mr. Thani Thongpakdi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand to the United Nations in Geneva, led a Thai delegation to participate in the 66 th meeting of the CITES Standing Committee in Geneva on January 2015 to report on the progress of law enforcement measures taken to curb the problem of illegal ivory under the National Ivory Action Plan The CITES Committee was satisfied with Thailand s active law enforcement effort and commended Thailand on her effective action to resolve the problem of the illegal ivory trade. 9. Cultural Promotion On the 40 th anniversary of Thailand Mexico diplomatic relations, Mr. Suvat Chirapant, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the Thai delegation to promote Thai culture in Mexico on July The delegation organized a cultural fair to show case traditional Thai art performance, fresh fruits and vegetable carving, umbrella painting, ceramic pottery making, and puppet making. The Thai communities also joined in the fair with the sale of Thai food and crafts. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, organized a Discover Thainess 2015 fair in Lima, Peru, on July 2015 to celebrate the 50 th anniversary of Thailand Peru diplomatic relations. The fair displayed traditional Thai dancing, handicrafts, fruit carving, earthenware, umbrella painting, and puppet making. Important dignitaries of Peru, including the Minister of Culture and the diplomatic corps attended the event. 104 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

106 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs publicized an advertising spot entitled The Way We see the World, produced by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, through the Al Jazeera television in English and Arabic on September Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 105

107 Chapter 7 Promoting Inclusive Diplomacy and Improving Consular Services 1. Knowledge Building and People s Participation The Ministry of Foreign Affairs promotes work integration and the participation of all sectors in, and their understanding of, foreign affairs. The Ministry also focuses its work on creating concrete benefits in response to the demands of the Thai people. This is done through meetings, brainstorming sessions, seminars, participation in international forums, lectures, and youth projects, as well as through the provision of consular services and the protection of Thai nationals and Thai interests abroad. The tangible results include increased awareness and understanding of Thai people in foreign affairs, the substantial and fruitful progress in the nation s foreign affairs, and the improvement of efficiency in consular services and in the protection of Thai nationals abroad. Thai youths have also learned about the missions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and civic duties, which are important foundations for national development. 1.1 Human Trafficking and Illegal Fishing Thailand s strategy to combat trafficking in persons encompasses the 5P framework, namely: (1) Policy; (2) Prosecution; (3) Protection; (4) Prevention, and (5) Partnership. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as the agency responsible for the promotion of partnership among all sectors in Thailand and with foreign countries, continued its tasks in 2015 in collaboration with line agencies and civil society to strengthen Thailand s effectiveness in addressing the issue. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, chaired a meeting with the private sector at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 18 February The meeting discussed measures to prevent and solve the problem of human trafficking, child labour, forced labour, and illegal fishing. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs chaired a discussion with civil society organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 25 February 2015 in order to seek recommendations and enhance collaborative efforts to solve human trafficking problems and manage foreign workers. On 19 March 2015, H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, chaired the 1 st Meeting of the National Sub-Committee on Public Relations and Legal Affairs under the Policy Committee on Human Trafficking and Illegal Fishing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. The Sub-Committee is mandated to inform the public and countries concerned of Thailand s progress and efforts to combat human trafficking and illegal fishing, as well as to strengthen cooperation among relevant sectors. 106 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

108 The meeting took stock of the significant progress made by relevant Thai authorities on anti-human trafficking efforts, particularly the positive outcome of various meetings held between relevant Thai authorities as well as local and foreign stakeholders such as the private sector and civil society organizations, the U.S. Department of State s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons (TIP Office) and relevant European partners. The meeting also came up with recommendations to better enhance the understanding between Thai and foreign partners by providing information about the efforts undertaken by Thai authorities to combat human trafficking and illegal fishing. At the seminar entitled Tip Report and Tier 3: Perspectives and Impacts on Thailand in Bangkok on 22 September 2015, Mr. Songsak Saicheua, Director-General of the Department of American and South Pacific Affairs, gave a special lecture on the Trafficking in Persons Report or TIP Report. All concerned agencies, civil society, and the media in Thailand agreed to consolidate efforts to tackle trafficking in persons. H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs, as chair of the National Sub-Committee on Public Relations and Legal Affairs under the Policy Committee on Human Trafficking and Illegal Fishing, convened a meeting with the private sector and civil society at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 24 December 2015 to exchange views on solutions to human trafficking and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The meeting agreed to establish a working group to coordinate efforts among the public, private, and civil society sectors to solve the problems. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 107

109 In order to support the efforts in tackling IUU fishing and to promote sustainable growth of the Thai fishery industry, the Department of European Affairs organized a seminar entitled Fishing for the Future: Towards Responsible & Sustainable Fisheries in Thailand at the Pullman King Power Hotel, Bangkok, on 7 July This seminar aimed to raise awareness across all sectors concerned in Thai society to build norms and values regarding sustainable fisheries. The seminar received significant attention from all relevant stakeholders, consisting of 140 participants from Thai public agencies, fishing associations, seafood businesses, academic institutions and NGOs. In her opening remarks, Mrs. Rattikul Chansuriya, Director-General of the Department of European Affairs, emphasized the significance of fisheries, not only in generating income for the economy, but also in promoting food security and good health among citizens. She also stressed that sound fisheries management requires a balance between meeting the demand of global consumers for seafood, boosting export earnings, and promoting the revitalization, conservation and sustainable management of marine resources. Previously, on 6 July 2015, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, in collaboration with the Command Centre for Combating Illegal Fishing (CCCIF) and the Thai Tuna Industry Association, organized a field visit for speakers and moderators of the seminar to observe the Royal Thai Government s undertakings in solving IUU fishing. The programme of the field visit comprised a vessel survey and inspection at a fishing pier and a briefing on the operations of Port In Port Out (PIPO) Control Center, as well as a visit to the tuna processing factory of Thai Union Frozen Products Public Co., Ltd. to observe the role of the private sector in protecting and promoting the rights of migrants workers. 108 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

110 The Department of European Affairs led a Thai delegation from the Command Center for Combating Illegal Fishing to participate in the International Stakeholders Forum on 20 th Anniversary of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries of the FAO in Vigo, Spain, on 8 9 October The Thai officers had an opportunity to learn about the situation and direction of the development of world fishery in the context of sustainable fisheries. They also met with the Department of Fishery of Spain to study the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) and discussed cooperation in solving the IUU fishing. 1.2 Buakaew Outreach Projects The Ministry of Foreign Affairs carried on the Buakaew Outreach Projects to increase communication channels with the public. In 2015, the projects were launched in the Provinces of Lamphun Lampang, Ayudhya Ang Thong, Satun Trang, Chiang Rai Phayao, examples of which are as follows: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized a lecture series as part of the activities of the Young Ambassadors of Virtue Foundation network in Lamphun and Lampang Provinces on 1 4 February 2015 on the topics of ASEAN Community, diplomatic protocols, and regional economic integration. The Ministry also gave financial support to a school in Lampang to organize ASEAN activities and met with local radio stations to discuss radio networking cooperation. In Satun and Trang Provinces on May 2015, Mr. Suvat Chirapant, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, met with the Governors, and MFA speakers gave lectures on ASEAN Community, regional economic integration, and Thai foreign policy towards Muslim countries. They also met with the Director of Radio Thailand s Office in Trang Province. In Chiang Rai Province on June 2015, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized lectures on the topic of ASEAN Community, regional economic integration, and the role of Thailand in the United Nations. 1.3 Youth Development H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presided over the opening ceremony and gave a special lecture titled Experiences on Youth Development at the International Conference on Youth Development: Borderless Opportunity and Equality in Honour of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on 29 June The Conference was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Bureau of the Royal Household on the celebration of the 60 th Birthday Anniversary of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on 2 April Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 109

111 The Department of Information of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Directorate of Joint Civil Affairs of the Royal Thai Army, implemented the youth development projects in the Provinces of Nong Khai, Uthai Thani, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Ratchasima from July September The activities comprised lectures on civic duties, the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, as well as the basic knowledge on the preparedness for the ASEAN Community, the United Nations, and English language skills. 1.4 Dissemination of Knowledge on Foreign Affairs The Devawongse Varopakarn Institute of Foreign Affairs (DVIFA) has been conducting a knowledge development programme for diplomats and officials from other government agencies. This is done through the organization of public lectures and seminars and the publication of newsletter, the Devawongse Sarn, as well as the academic cooperation programme with universities across Thailand to develop research in foreign affairs fields. In 2015, the activities include: 110 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

112 A special lecture entitled Thailand and Global Situations to a delegation from the Strategic Studies Center, Royal Thai Army, on 9 January 2015; A special lecture on the topic Foreign Policies/International Relations and Experiences as a Diplomat at Bangkok Christian College on 12 January 2015; A special lecture on the topic The Role of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank on the 10 th July 2015 by Professor Zhu Caihua, Dean of the Faculty of Economics, China Foreign Affairs University, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; An internship programme for students from the Southern Border Provinces to be trained at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during June 2 June 17, 2015, which was aimed at creating opportunities for young people from the South to learn about foreign policy, as well as social and economic dimensions of Thailand in a wider aspect. A visit by H.E. Mr. Dhiravat Bhumichitr, Ambassador attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Director of DVIFA, to the Prince of Songkhla University, Pattani Campus, on 10 September The purpose was to discuss academic cooperation and the development of English-skill tests. Thereafter, the DVIFA Director visited Yala Province to discuss cooperation Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 111

113 in educational and youth development in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand. On 11 September 2015, the Ambassador gave a lecture to students from the three Southern Border Provinces at the Prince of Songkhla University, Pattani Campus. 2. Consular Services In addition to the Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide functioning as Damrong Dhamma Centres to address complaints from Thai people, the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, launched a 24 hour Call Center (service number ) to increase communication channels and to enhance the effectiveness in the protection of Thai people abroad. It is a one-stop-service center that gives consular service information, including preparation before going abroad, and could be elevated into a coordination centre in times of crisis abroad. The Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offered an express passport service (maximum of 400 units per day), ready for pick-up within one day starting from 8 April The Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offered services through a Mobile Application under the title Thaiconsular for Android and ios operating systems, as well as through well-known Applications, such as LINE and We Chat. It is also available through Facebook under the title Thai Consular Q&A. These applications and services are the means to gain access to users globally for information dissemination and consular assistance in case of emergency. In 2015, more than 300 consular mobile services were organized by 75 Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide altogether. The mobile units included passport issuance, household registration, and civil registration services. 3. Protection of Thai People Abroad In 2015, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as the main agency responsible for the protection of Thai nationals and interests abroad, assisted Thai nationals at risk from earthquakes, political incidents, and other distressing situations. 112 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

114 3.1 Disaster Relief The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Thai Embassy in Kathmandu, in collaboration with concerned agencies, assisted Thais who were affected by the earthquakes in Nepal during 25 April 7 June 2015, and evacuated 172 people to Thailand. 3.2 Political Disorder The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Thai Embassy in Muscat, Oman, along with the Royal Thai Embassies in Cairo, Egypt, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and in Doha, Qatar, assisted 148 Thai students to evacuate from Yemen during political incidents during 29 March 14 June Thai Fishermen The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Thai Embassy in Jakarta assisted Thai fishermen in Indonesia, a total of 1,874 people, since 2015 (From 1 October October 2016). 3.4 Others The Royal Thai Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, assisted Thai students who were arrested by the police and sent back to Thailand on 25 June Following the encroachment into the Royal Thai Honorary Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, on 8 July 2015, the Royal Thai Embassy in Ankara, Turkey, coordinated with the Government of Turkey to reassure the safety of all Thais. Following the incident of the crane crushing people to death during the pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on 11 September 2015, the Royal Thai Embassy in Riyadh assisted the family of the Thai national who was killed, by having his body buried in the city as requested. The Embassy also searched for lost Thais, and visited them in hospital. 3.5 Support of Thai Muslim Students The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supervises and takes care of Thai Muslim students abroad, most of whom are from the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand. The Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide provide support and welfare for the students. They promote interaction with and among Thai students, support their studies and encourage their educational potential, as well as the establishment of Thai student associations. The purpose is to promote solidarity and strengthen Thai communities. In 2015, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported 50 projects from the Embassies and Consulates-General in 21 countries. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 113

115 Chapter 8 Enhancing Organizational Capability The Ministry of Foreign Affairs attaches high importance to the enhancement of organizational efficiency and capacity building, including skill and knowledge development for diplomatic and non diplomatic staff at all levels. During 2015, a number of seminars, workshops and training courses were organized, such as training courses for newly recruited diplomats, consular officers, and newly appointed ambassador and consul-generals. Such efforts were aimed to ensure a high level of professionalism of every foreign service official. 1. Personnel Training 1.1 New Recruit Training The Devawongse Varopakarn Institute of Foreign Affairs (DVIFA) organized the annual training course for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs new recruits in 2015 in Chonburi Province. The activities include a briefing on diplomatic skills and knowledge, simulation activities, team building, a study visit to royally-initiated projects, and on-the-job training in disseminating knowledge on ASEAN and foreign affairs to students and local communities. 1.2 Foreign Affairs Executive Programme DVIFA organized the 7 th Class of the Foreign Affairs Executive Programme on 11 May 29 July The programme offered a study trip to Lopburi Province under the project entitled Tracing the History of Thai Diplomacy with the themes the 2 nd Capital City of Ayudhya, Relations with Persia and the West, and Lopburi and World War II. The participants, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, other government agencies and CLMV countries, also had a study visit to the Nakhonluang Rice Factory in Ayudhya on 5 June 2015 and attended a lecture under the topic Thailand s Rice Strategy and Ship Transportation as well as a call on Mr. Damrong Puttan, former Bangkok Senator, with a lecture on the topic Muslims in Thailand: a Harmonious Life. 114 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

116 1.3 Foreign Services Trainings The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, by DVIFA, organized a training course on foreign services for new Consuls and Ambassadors on April 2015 to increase work efficiency abroad. A training course for new counsellors and spouses was organized on January 2015 prior to their departure for posting, to underline the importance of their roles in missions abroad. 1.4 Financial Administration DVIFA organized an annual training course for administrative staffs of Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General during February 2015 on new accounting and budgeting tools for public administrations. 1.5 Skills Development DVIFA organized various training courses in 2015 aimed at improving the skills of officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other governmental agencies. These included an Intensive Language Course, Creative Writing, Effective Presentation Skills, Oral Communication Course, Advanced Oral Communication Course, Public Speaking Techniques, and Interview Techniques. Creative Writing Course, 11 February 8 April 2015 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 115

117 Effective Presentation Skills Course, March 2015 Public Speaking Techniques Course, June 2015 Interview Techniques Course, 3 5 August Intensive Language Course, 5 January 13 February, 30 March 15 May, and 3 August 15 September 2015 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

118 Oral Communication Course, 2 27 March and 29 June 24 July 2015 Advanced Oral Communication Course, 9 November 6 December Standardization and Quality Guarantee DVIFA organized a training course on the topic Standardization and Quality Guarantee on 13 March 2015 to support the undertakings on the international standard and quality. 1.7 Test Development As the testing centre for English proficiency for personnel from the public sector and independent organizations under the supervision of the state, DVIFA continued to develop the new Devawongse Varopakarn Institute of Foreign Affairs Test of English Skills (DIFA TES) in 2015, based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 117

119 1.8 Training Cooperation Representatives from DVIFA and Aberystwyth University, Wales, the United Kingdom, met to discuss guidelines for cooperation in training and academy in the fields that the University has expertise in, such as international relations, computer, and technology. DVIFA, in collaboration with Oakland University, Michigan, the United States, organized an academic seminar at the Narathip Auditorium, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on 17 March 2015 under the topic Intercultural Competency (ICC) and Global Citizenship: Language Education for Our Diverse World. The seminar started with a lecture given by Associate Professor Sharon Harvey, Head of the School of Language and Culture and Deputy Dean of Faculty and Society. It was organized upon the visit by the delegation from Oakland University to discuss academic cooperation with DVIFA. At the seminar, H.E. Mr. Ruben Levermore, Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand and Mr. Noppadon Theppitak, Deputy Permanent Secretary, gave a lecture on the topics Education Relations between New Zealand and Thailand and Cooperation between DVIFA and AUT respectively. 118 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

120 1.9 Training of Consular Officials The Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organized a meeting of consular officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok on May 2015 to update consular officials on new regulations and services to enable them to provide more efficient consular services. 2. Policy-Making Meetings and Seminars The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized a Meeting of Thai Ambassadors and Consuls-General in Bangkok on 28 April 1 May 2015 under the theme Driving Thailand towards Stability, Prosperity, and Sustainability. H.E. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Thailand, gave policy guidance with an emphasis on the strengthening of relations and partnership at the bilateral, sub-regional, and multilateral levels, as well as the promotion of economic development and Thailand s constructive role in ASEAN, and the protection of the overseas Thais with the aim of making the embassies and consulates serve as one-stop-service centres. The meeting s participants exchanged ideas extensively about policies and tasks in each region. The Ambassadors and Consuls-General also had meetings with senior representatives of Thai agencies including the Ministers of Commerce, Energy, Transport, and Science and Technology, as well as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, along with the Director of the Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), the Manager of Google, Thailand, and a senior researcher from TDRI, who were participants at the meeting. The 2 nd Meeting of Thai Ambassadors and Consuls-General for 2015 was organized under the topic Proactive Diplomacy to Drive Thailand s Economy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 13 November 2015 where the Prime Minister emphasized the role of Ambassadors and Consuls-General in enhancing an understanding of Thailand and in promoting economic cooperation with an emphasis on the enhancement of competitiveness of the Thai business sector, the promotion of trade and investment, and cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 119

121 On the same day, H.E. Mr. Somkid Jatusripitak, Deputy Prime Minister, provided economic policy guidance by addressing missions of the Government, urgent reform measures that aimed to lay a solid foundation for long-term economic development. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Commerce, and Industry exchanged views with Ambassadors and Consuls-General on the enhancement of the country s competitiveness, the promotion of trade and investment cooperation between Thailand and foreign counterparts, and collaboration in the transfer of knowledge, technology, and innovation. The Ambassadors and Consuls-General also had an opportunity to exchange opinions with eminent persons like the Vice-President of the National Reform Steering Assembly, as well as the Minister of Science and Technology, the Secretary General of the Thailand Board of Investment, and the Governor of the Bank of Thailand, along with representatives from the private sector including the Federation of Thai Industry, the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, and a group of small and medium enterprises. The meeting discussed the implementation of the country s economic policies, such as the enhancement of competitiveness of the Thai business sector, the increase in values of Thai goods and services, the globalization of markets for Thai products, and the promotion of international partnerships. 120 Annual Report 2015 MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS